Learning To Communicate

I only had a few hours before my flight back to the states, so I decided to go one of my regular hangouts, a basti (village) called Nizamuddin.  Nizamuddin is a Muslim colony where the famous saint, Hazrat Nizamuddin is buried.  Muslims from all over the world come Nizamuddin as there is a madrassa or school there to instruct Muslims on how they can be better Muslims.

In spite of the 105 degree heat and incredibly crowded narrow streets, I went to my favorite barber.  I love going to this shop as the brothers there know their craft.  When I get a haircut in the states I tell the cutters how I want it and in the end they cut it as they want and charge me $12.  These guys handle scissors and combs with precision, knowing exactly how to cut my thinning grey hair.  There is no joking, no conversation.  They smile at me when I come in, sometimes bring me tea in-between cuts.  The end of the trimming is near when I get a good neck and head massage.  Though the standard price is just $0.50 I give $1.00 and we all part company happy.

I wanted to buy a cotton kurta (long shirt) while in the busti and found a guy who was willing to deal and spoke good English.  While I was talking with the proprietor, two other guys came up to his stall.  They greeted me, “Salam Alakum,” which I replied, “Aalkum Salam.”

“These guys are from Kyrsgystan,” the shop owner informed me.

“Really,” I said with interest.  “I have visited Bishket.  Nice place.  What brings you to India?”

“We have joined the madassa for thee weeks.  In our country, though we are Muslims, we need more studies in our faith.  Are you a Muslim,” he asked?

Before I could answer he said, “Maybe not yet.  Later, Isha Alla (if God wills).

“No, I am a follower if Isa.” 

They were nice guys and they even invited me for a cool mango drink outside, which I would have gladly done if I had time.

Later I was with my Christian friend who lives in Nizamuddin and told him of my exchange.  An expert in talking with Muslims he said, “When they asked if you were a Muslim you should have said, ‘Do you mean do I worship the One true living God?  Yes, I do worship that Only God.’”

Every encounter with other people of other faiths is a cross-cultural communication moment.  Next time I get my head clipped in Nizamuddin maybe my conversation will give me a chance to affirm my submission to the One and only God and I can explain why I believe Isa is more than a prophet.