An Italian traveler, Nicolo Guarrera, was deeply moved by the kindness of Imam Hilmi Yilmaz in Düzce, Turkey.
When Guarrera sought refuge at the Kirazli Village Mosque, Yilmaz not only offered him shelter but also ensured his comfort by sharing food and caring for his well-being.
Despite the traveler’s efforts to assist, the imam prioritized him, even cleaning his muddy shoes.
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“Real hospitality: being welcomed without words, being fed and saying you’re full, receiving company and a hug instead of being left alone,” he wrote on Instagram.
“The imam even washes my shoes, surprisingly, without saying a word. I find him in the bathroom brushing his brushes, in person, and when I try to stop him he lifts his shoulders and continues to clean them smiling, saying something that he must want to say Don’t worry, I do it gladly
“Truly, I have lost words for the hospitality received in Turkey.”
Their warm interaction led to meaningful cultural exchanges, highlighting the essence of Turkish hospitality and Islamic values.
Guarrera’s story, shared widely on social media, showcases the power of kindness across cultures.