let us thank God for having made us this gift of death, so that life is to have meaning; of night, that day is to have meaning; silence, that speech is to have meaning; illness, that health is to have meaning; war, that peace is to have meaning. Let us give thanks to Him for having given us weariness and pain, so that rest and joy are to have meaning. Let us give thanks to him, whose wisdom is infinite.
Amin MaaloufDuring my youth, the idea of moving from Lebanon was unthinkable. Then I began to realise I might have to go, like my grandfather, uncles and others who left for America, Egypt, Australia, Cuba.
Amin MaaloufIn my prayers, I want to say: Lord, donโt be far from me, and also donโt come too close. Let me contemplate the stars on the texture of your cloth, but donโt unveil your face to me. Allow me to hear the rivers that you send running, but Lord! Lord! Donโt allow me hearing your voice
Amin Maalouf