We finally got to see our host school Asaada. I was moved to tears when we were welcomed and again just thinking about it. The whole school, more than 1200 students, and the entire faculty was in the courtyard cheering for us as we walked in. Four students were dressed in traditional clothes and served us dates and milk in carved crystal glasses, the customary way to greet honoured guests.
One of the girls played the Moroccan national anthem while the crowd sang. The US anthem was next and we sang along as they watched; well, we sang the first verse and stood uncomfortably as the next two verses played until I could get them to stop the music.
After some official greetings we retreated to the "teachers lounge" which is a beautiful area designed by one of the English teachers. We were served mint tea and assorted pastries while everyone asked to take pictures with us one by one.
The teachers then brought us around the campus to show off their rooms, administrative offices, and science labs all of which they are very proud of.
I can only hope to be as welcoming and gracious the next time e have a campus guest. I need to step up my PV PRIDE.
Saturday, March 12, 2016
A welcome beyond belief
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Hospitality and generosity is something that was very prevalent during my travels in Peru, just as it is in Morocco. In Spanish class, we get to learn about the traditions of different cultures. When we research about countries that we are learning about, we research their culture and traditions. Just like in the Moroccan culture, the Cuban culture also has traditional attire which consists of ruffled skirts, exaggerated sleeves and brightly colored, embroidered shirts and blouses.
ReplyDeleteI wish people in America were like this. I have never been outside of the United States before, but I bet that I'd love being welcomed like that. It seems that people from different countries are nicer than Americans. Spanish countries seem to have more traditions than us. I don't even know what traditions we have here other than singing the Star Spangled Banner during special events.
ReplyDeleteI feel like Morocco welcomed you like this because on a daily basis, they are isolated. In America, different cultures mingle every single day. Public schools are a testament to this; many interesting cultures and ideas are being shared to mold each and every student differently. In Morocco, it doesn't seem as though they get that same privilege. Although yes, they do have some immigration from surrounding countries, but for the most part they are simply Moroccan. Beautiful as that is, it doesn't brace them for the diversity and hardships of the other countries around them.
ReplyDeleteI think this is just amazing, the fact that you were welcomed like this just shows how much more they value the efforts of people to come to their school and be involved in their community. There are so many times that guest speakers and visitors come to pv and I don't even give them the time of day. If they treat their guests like this, Imagine how they treat the people they've know for their entire lifetime. I hope that I can learn to be as inviting as these people were.
ReplyDeleteThat's incredible! The difference in our cultures is unbelievable, and how much effort they go through to make you feel welcome. We may have a welcoming in America, but it wouldn't be nearly as ceremonial. It is so cool how in touch with their culture and history they are, and I wish we were as well.
ReplyDeleteThat is amazing! I know the feeling of being welcomed to a school of a different country, it definitely feels great. I have always wondered what it would be like to go to school in another country.
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