2nd Day in Cairo

2^nd Day in Cairo                       

It seems that all days in Egypt have a great deal of contrasting experiences. This day certainly did. We began at the Egyptian Museum. What an incredible collection of artifacts and assorted “stuff” which tell the rich history of this land. The mummies were certainly fascinating, but all the treasures surrounding them in their tombs were even more astounding. Lots of food went with them, not to mention some very strong beer. You certainly want to be fortified for the journey to the next life. They had a special section just for King Tut’s treasures, but everyone was wedged in there together so tightly, it was not very pleasant.

We next went to St. Sergius’ Coptic Church. On the way we passed the oldest mosque in the city, dating from 642 A.D and across the street was a Christian church. The relations between the Muslim and Christian communities in Egypt are very good. The site of St. Sergius is the traditional site where Jesus, Mary and Joseph took refuge when they fled from Bethlehem from Herod. It was a holy place, very moving.

The day ended in the old city’s bazaar. What an amazing assortment of goods being sold by some very charming and persistent folks. Here your NO must truly convey the essence of the word, If they think you are wavering in any way, they will follow you for blocks. I still don’t have the art of bargaining down, but I do know that when you counter and they say, “EXCUSE ME?”; you have started the process. Though they act offended, they will begin to work with you at that point. Even though you get them to lower the price, in the end, I felt fairly certain I had paid too much. Still, though, it was fun….

We leave Cairo tomorrow and begin the 5-hour trip across the Sinai desert to St. Catherine’s Monastery at the foot of Mt. Sinai. This is the home of the burning bush and the site of God’s giving the 10 Commandments to Moses.

Blessings,

Robert