On December 2, 2021, I had the honor of being a guest at the celebration of the National Day of the United Arab Emirates. It was a grand event, with representatives from 193 countries in attendance. Each guest was given a special silk scarf adorned with the UAE flag to wear on our shoulders. Little did I know that this scarf would become a symbol of humility and kindness.
After the flag-raising ceremony, we were escorted to the UAE pavilion. As we made our way there, I found myself walking beside Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahya, the Prince of UAE and the Minister of Tolerance of the United Arab Emirates. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahya was our main host for the event, and I felt both honored and nervous to be walking alongside him.
As we engaged in conversation, I suddenly felt my scarf slipping from my shoulder and falling to the ground. I was mortified. This scarf was a special gift from the UAE government, and it bore the UAE flag. I couldn’t believe that I had let it fall to the ground, especially in the presence of Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahya.
Without hesitation, I immediately knelt down to retrieve my fallen scarf, repeatedly apologizing for my clumsiness. However, before I could reach it, Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahya swiftly picked it up from the floor and gently placed it back on my shoulder. I was amazed by his humility and kindness in that moment.
It would have been understandable if Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahya had simply watched me pick up my scarf from the ground. After all, he was a respected prince and minister, and I was just a guest. But instead, he chose to take action and help me. His actions spoke volumes about his character and the values he upholds.
As we struggled with my fallen scarf, all the guests who were following behind us stopped, witnessing this act of humility. It was a powerful moment that left a lasting impression on me. I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude and admiration for Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahya.
This encounter taught me a valuable lesson about the importance of humility and kindness, regardless of one’s position or status. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahya exemplified these qualities in the most genuine and sincere way. His actions showed that true leadership is not just about power and authority, but also about compassion and empathy.
As I reflect on that day, I am reminded of the incredible hospitality and warmth that the United Arab Emirates extends to its guests. The UAE is a nation that embraces diversity, tolerance, and respect for all. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahya’s act of picking up my fallen scarf was a testament to these values.
I will forever cherish the memory of that moment and the lesson it taught me. It serves as a reminder to always be humble and kind, and to extend a helping hand to others whenever possible. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahya’s humility will forever inspire me, and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to witness it firsthand.