Friday, March 5, 2010

Flashback Series: Northern Africa Trip I

JULY 2009:

We arrived in Casablanca at about 7am on Friday. After inching our way through the customs line, we made it through to the other side! Our fearless leader embraced his old friend in true Moroccan friendship. After the hugs and kisses, we were off to the streets. We rode past men riding on their motorcycles, a donkey pulling a cart, and a couple of mosques. Contrasting the dry colors of the land, bursting Bougainvillea spilled over courtyard walls. Perhaps this contrast could properly serve as a parallel to some of the communities we past. There were shanty towns littered with trash on the same road as sparkling manors.

Upon reaching our destination, we were able to relax and sort through the experiences of the day. All the while, our group was beginning to bask in the camaraderie and friendly faces about the den. Hungry as we were, we did not put up the least resistance in savoring an authentic Moroccan meal (3 courses) with our new found friends. As we dug into the communal dishes, we learned names and took in tips in Moroccan etiquette.

Needless to say, a nap was in order. It was the best one hour nap I could have asked for!

Once awakened, we regrouped for our orientation. Sure, there was laughing about learning the proper way to greet people, but there was so much more. How inspiring it was to hear about my group. Story after story of how all financial needs were met left me feeling confident about being here. Also, listening to what kind of growth had been transpiring in everyone's walk during the past few weeks and days was a particularly cherished time. I know that greater things will be done in this city. Why I have been chosen to participate in serving the people here is beyond me, but I know we're all just so excited to see how we will be used!

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