Author Reflects on Uncle's 90th Birthday, Recalling Family History and Resilience
The author, Dr. Randa Zuraik-Sabbagh, reflects on her uncle Nimer's 90th birthday, weaving personal memories with poignant family history. She recalls childhood visits to her uncle's home in Nazareth and a previous residence in Yaffa Al-Naseriyye, remembering specific details like a grape arbor and fruit trees.
Nimer worked as a car electrician in Nazareth, a profession the author vividly describes through the sights, sounds, and smells of his busy garage. She contrasts her father's financial struggles, which prevented him from owning a car despite having a license, with her uncle's established career. Her father's difficulties stemmed from their family's orphaned status after their grandfather, Naim, was killed in the 1948 Kafr Bir'im massacre, leaving his wife to give birth to their youngest son, Riyad, in Lebanon.
The author recounts her father's story of his brother Elias's vow to educate Riyad as a doctor if they ever returned to their village, a promise the siblings fulfilled. Riyad became the first doctor in their village of 'Ailbun. She also shares memories of her father and uncle Nimer sharing a rented room in Nazareth during their high school years in the early 1950s, with their mother joining them to manage the household.
The narrative touches upon Nimer's paternal care for his nephew, Naim (son of Elias), whom he mentored in his profession. Nimer is portrayed as a jovial, generous, and welcoming figure who treated customers like guests. The author also recalls participating in volunteer work in Nazareth with a childhood friend, an experience that broadened her political and humanitarian awareness, particularly regarding volunteers from the West Bank.
Further memories include Nimer building a stone house with a view of Nazareth and cherished family gatherings, especially trips to the Sea of Galilee. She fondly remembers shared moments watching television, highlighting Nimer's lighthearted approach to life, contrasting it with her father's more analytical nature. The piece concludes with a harrowing account of the 1948 expulsion from 'Ailbun, where Nimer, then 12, protected his younger brother, Nadim, during the forced march to Lebanon. The author expresses her deep love and wishes for her uncle's continued health and happiness, while also mourning the loss of her own father, who passed away before celebrating his 80th birthday.
