HW 34: Date Palms and Tea in Iraq

Date Palms are very important to the Iraqi people. All parts of the tree are nice to look at to locals and foreigners, and are very useful. In the summer months the palms “provide hundreds of dates for immediate consumption, storage, or processing” (Riverbend, 104). There are over 300 type of dates and very few people don’t’ enjoy they. They are used to make syrups, sweets, seasoning, and drinks. All parts of the palm tree are helpful including the fronds, leaves, and even the palms. Riverbend likes to use date pits to make necklaces, belts and rosaries. More importantly Iraqis view these trees as part of their family. Through out Iraq “palm trees have represented the rugged, stoic, beauty of Iraq and its people are a reminder that no matter how difficult the circumstances, there is hope for life and productivity”(Riverbend 105). It is clear that these plants represent more than trees along the street. When several of them were knocked down farmers and kids alike are devastated by US troops actions as Riverbend saw. Evening tea in Iraq is a time for family and friends to come together and relax and talk about issues going on. Iraqis take their tea serious and would most likely be insulted if you brought out a tea bag. It is a time to talk about all of the terror and politics suffocating their country. In the post Riverbend and others speak out Turkish troops and issues involving that.