Kuwait Times

Published Date: June 07, 2007
By Badrya Darwish

Today was a big day in our office. Finally, the editorial department moved to the new building, which is on only two meters opposite the old one. But still, it was a big jump. I was surprised to see different reactions and feelings from the staff.  Some were excited and feeling happy to get new offices, new chairs, new computers, new phones, etc etc as they have suffered in old chairs for a few years with the management saying: No budget. Wait till we move to the new building. Shakir, for instance, shouted from one end of the building to the other how happy he was. Ben was so excited he jumped on his desk and started writing.But others were not happy. They felt sad, disoriented and had different kinds of feelings. For instance, when our reporter Nawara arrived at the old building today and was told her office was no longer there and she had to go upstairs to the new building, she just went to her car and sped around the block like a mad woman, then came back crying. Our Palestinian translator, Abu Ahmed had similar feelings. He looked like he’d just been thrown out of Gaza by the Israelis. Another translator Abdullatif attributed a busted vessel in his eye to the stress of moving to the new building. Velina, another reporter said the place didn’t feel comfortable or cozy. In all, many people were distressed and sad including myself. But with me, stress is no problem. I feel like stress is a close friend of mine. I think, being a journalist, you are always stressed one way or the other. Except for our over-pragmatic American managing editor Jamie, who was criticizing and shouting at people who felt distressed. When I tried to criticize her, and attract her attention that it’s a human feeling, that some people get attached to walls and floors etc, she was more angry and frustrated. I’m not surprised, typical American attitude. I asked her if she’s related to George Bush. No hard feelings to any Americans. Many can cope with transitions but many find it frightening and upsetting. But I guess this is human nature. People don’t always like change and don’t always want change, even when it’s for the better.  What is the secret to old walls and buildings? Why do we cling to the past when the future is handed to us? Do these walls have feelings or a magnetic power which pulls us always to the old and ancient. I have no idea. But tonight I tell you guys, I am so sad.I think we all have fear inside ourselves but some are more courageous then others and can deal with change better. Some hide it or conceal better. Whatever the case, as I’m ending my article, a state of controlled chaos is still in the editorial hall. I think Cyclone Gonu has arrived here.