It's a bittersweet time

Tomorrow is my last day in Morocco.

When i decided to come here, I had little idea about Morocco or Moroccans. It was just a distant country on the northern tip of Africa, somewhat mysterious, with a touch of romanticism.

Now that I've been here for 4 weeks, it's still has that bit of mystery & romanticism about it, but i've learned so much more. It's a beautiful country full of wonder; from the ocean to the desert: Rabat, where the French colonial influence is still very evident; Marrakech, what a magical place is Marrakech; Fes, the City of Faith and Learning, with it's many styles of minarets and beautiful Mosques; and the mighty Sahara Desert, with its silent beauty, especially as the sun is setting.

But of all the sights and sounds of Morocco, it's the Moroccan people that are the most fantastic. There are no more friendly and helpful people anywhere in the world. Moreover, they are justifiably proud of their culture (and eager to tell you about it), fiercely proud of their Berber heritage, and unshakable in their faith in Islam.

I came here as a volunteer to teach English. Only time will tell if what I was able to teach is a help. I thought it would be easy! Pretty foolish thought. Thank God for the internet and the resource library here at the home-base. I think I've learned more about English grammar in the past 4 weeks than I ever knew before. It was tough, and it was sometimes embarrassing, but nonetheless it was an enriching experience that I will always believe was worthwhile. It has made an impact on my life and given me a deep sense of satisfaction and fulfillment.

However, the most important thing, the most wonderful thing, that I will bring home with me are the friends I've made: Ali, Mourad, Youness, Otman, Bilal, and Rachid. Young Moroccans full of life, laughter, ambition and faith. I will so miss going to the cafe with them after class, drinking VERY strong Moroccan coffee, talking and laughing (always much laughter) about anything and everything: politics, religion, globalization, the environment, music, cars, motorcycles, girls. And the arguments we've had!! These folks were not shy about challenging me on US Foreign Policy and our military campaigns in the middle east. They definitely have strong opinions. But when we leave the cafe we shake hands, touch our hearts and say "see you tomorrow, Inchalla" They have impacted my life in a way that I can never adequately express. May God, in His Greatness, look after them and grant them peace and happiness always. Inchalla.

I sincerely hope that at some point in each of your lives some of you find yourself where I am now. It's not an easy thing to leave ones comfort zone and go off to a different place, where the language and culture is so different. But if you do it, you will be surprised and pleased at how it changes and enriches your life forever. It has mine.

Thank you all for your support on this journey of mine. It might have a bit crazy, but oh so worth it.

I look forward to being home next week.

Inchalla

Dave