Hello friends!
About two months ago, my friend Rita and I were in the car returning from an outing and discussing all of our hobbies. This launched a lengthy discussion about different types of knowledge and the value of book-smarts vs. street-smarts vs. life experience. Over the course of our conversation we touched on many topics including many that are going to be spotlighted here. At the end of our chat she turned around and told me, “Mariam, you should start a blog and write about all of these things we are talking about, because that is what you are passionate about”. I had never considered writing in a public platform before. Truth be told this seems odd on the account that I am currently pursuing an English degree. I have mostly been writing within the realm of academia for the past several years. It really hadn't occurred to me to try something public and accountable until now. So here I am!
I suppose after that bit of rambling you may be wondering who I am. My name is Mariam Hanna. I am twenty-two years old. I was born in Cairo, Egypt, but I live in Atlanta, Georgia in the United States. I am currently pursuing a degree in English and a minor in Gender & Women’s Studies. I am an enthusiastic artist, a passionate foodie, a keen movie watcher, an avid reader, an insatiable chef, an elaborate writer, and an eager traveler. I firmly believe that all these personas add beauty and splendor into my life. They make life crazy and often times more difficult, but in the end these endeavors of the heart, soul, and mind are what make it worthwhile. At least that is the case for me. Why be simple or boring, when you can be complex and interesting. These elements are the sources of the madness in our lives that we are born with and that we must not ever lose sight of. The best way that I have ever heard it explained was by the late Robin Williams, “You’re only given a little spark of madness. You mustn’t lose it”.
I really hope that I can share these passions of mine with you and that you strap in for the journey with me!
-M.H.H.
