"Planting Seeds in Morocco" by Noor Traina
Hi readers! I am so excited to share my journey throughout Morocco with you this semester. I came here from Los Angeles where I study Religion, Philosophy and Middle East Studies at the University of Southern California. Morocco intrigued me because I was searching for a place in the Arab world where I could explore my interests in North African artistic culture, Sufism, and the intersection of Western and Eastern identities.
As a lover of poetry, theater, film, and creative writing, I find so much meaning in the articulation of human beings' experiences through art. These interests made blogging a compelling opportunity where I could document the unique ways I experience Moroccan culture as a Libyan-American woman, student of religious philosophies, artist, and community organizer.
My grandfather's prayer beads that were passed on to my mother and then to me this fall epitomize the most important part of my journey in Morocco. It is about deepening my understanding of faith and its socio-cultural manifestations all over the world through my personal and family histories. Sheikh Mustafa Treki, my mother's father was a scholar of Islam and leader in Libya who studied at the infamous Al Azhar and his spiritual excellence that drove his political involvement in decolonizing Libyan land inspires me endlessly. His beads remind me of my mission in Morocco to renew my commitment to understanding Islam as a woman and the many ways it shapes a highly politicized and globalized Arab world.
This is Bader Mosque, which is super close to AMIDEAST in Rabat! Photo credit: Traina, 2019
In Rabat, I am most looking forward to learning how to play the oud, which is somewhat like a North African hollower version of the guitar. I have listened to Classical Arabic music for years and have been so moved by its rhythmic melodies. In Morocco, classes are cheaper and I cannot wait to be able to create the art I've only been able to appreciate for so long.
The most difficult part of studying abroad for me will be balancing my goals and priorities. While abroad, I want to improve my Arabic, learn new content in my courses, go on many adventures, develop relationships with local Moroccans while staying in touch with loved ones at home, and apply to graduate school. Doing this while staying holistically healthy will present a challenge, but I am prepared to persevere and stay positive throughout the trip. My experiences studying on the East Coast and Turkey have allowed me to appreciate the difficulty and all the blessings that come with it.
I look forward to sharing my time here in Rabat with you!
