Blog 9: Natalie

Flowing out of our neighborhood of homestay houses in a desert trail leading into more rural country and farm houses. It passes by cascading sandy hills and groupings of cacti and shrubs. Almost every day we have spent here, our GSL group has trekked this trail right before sunset. Our group is never alone, as we are always accompanied by village kids of all age ranges for our 1-2 hour excursion. These are kids we all teach during the day, however I feel we are able to make the most impact during these daily walks. On numerous occasions, I have walked and talked with different kids, trying to use phrases taught in English class or learn more Darija through the timeless game of pointing around at things. As I hold hands with these kids, sharing my huge sunglasses or sips of my sun-boiled water, I have been able to learn the immense patience these kids have when speaking to us. The walks are a safe space where we can form bonds that are difficult in a classroom setting, and they are also the most fun part of my day. Cousins Yusef (8) and Ayoub (10) are always there to hold my hand or karate chop sticks, or air guitar to songs with Shepard, Hanae and Farah (9) can always make us laugh and smile with their undeniable charm. Ikram (11) has the passion of an adult and is the most hilarious girl I’ve met. Jaouad, a trip leader, even provides some carefully curated songs to accompany the kids spiderman agility or the intense soccer games that accompany us as we walk. Even when it hasn’t been scheduled, these walks have connected our literal service of classes to the intangible connections we have made with our kids, showing not only how we have impacted them, but how they have helped us in return.