What, me worry?

I must be Mad!

Egypt is dangerous! 

A Look At the news shows us Americans are not welcome!

That may be, but I am not worried. Even Marginally. While I am aware of the demonstrations that have taken place, there is no turning back now. I completed my last day at work, my last day at the Museum for three months, my last day in Ann Arbor until 2013. Now all that awaits me is the flight to Cairo, and the beginning of this adventure.

There has been a lot of concern coming from family and friends. Understandably so. And I am touched so many would be concerned for my safety. Yes, it will be quite a while until I see them again. Yes, there has been unrest in the Arab world.

But there is a Lighter Side of this. I am not traveling as some sort of Spy. This is not a gag trip. I am traveling for work purposes, and I know how to travel in a manner that will draw less attention to myself. While I know I will still stand out no matter what, I am hoping my attire and demeanor do not stick out like a sore thumb.

Still, the outpouring of support has been quite moving. Emails from colleagues wishing me a great trip. Coworkers dropping by my office to see me off. Friends joining me for one last drink. I must admit, I am a bit surprised by this. In an earlier post, I discussed how this trip is not that big of a deal, as many colleagues do this routinely, many of them multiple times per year, or every year. So why the difference with me?

Does it matter?

I say no, it does not. That so many care for me is a nice feeling. For that, I appreciate you all.

I promise to be safe. I promise not to put myself in any dangerous situation. I promise to look at least both ways before crossing a street. I promise not to give snappy answers to stupid questions, and risk making anyone angry. I promise to put on sun screen and not burn myself in the desert sun. I promise to keep emergency numbers on me. I promise to stay in touch as often as I can.

Most importantly, I promise to have fun, and do my job as best as I can.

Now it is time to Fold In, complete those last-minute details, and go off and fulfill those promises.