On Politics, Hope and Idealism

It goes without saying that the presidential election has the countries of the world captivated. Morocco is no exception.

I am often asked about US politics: do you like Obama, what is it like to vote, etc. But the most curious question I get asked: Will Americans let Barack Obama win? Using the verb “to let” sends my academic-minded brain into spins. Reflecting on their wordage and I realize I have:
-lived through 4 soon-to-be 5 country leaders while all but the young children here have known 2
-participated in more elections than the people in my community
-the opportunity to be involved in my American community through voice and action

I watched much of the Democratic primary coverage at my host family’s. Like most other people here, they assumed that Barack Obama was already president by virtue of winning the Democratic primary for the simple fact that the Republican primaries got very little coverage, if at all. As the current race between Obama and McCain heats up, they realize that the battle is not yet won.

While watching some of this coverage, 8 year-old Si Mohammed looked at me and said, “Barack Obama looks like me and that is good for America and for Morocco.” I stared back, speechless.

Yes, I am one of those young people inspired by Obama’s message of hope. Sometimes my idealism seems a little foolish but to live here, it is required. Recently, cynicism, bitterness, and frustration have won the battle with idealism. But yesterday, idealism won, in a big way.

Si Mohammed and I went to the little store by my house. While trying to buy a couple of eggs, I felt a tugging on my shirt. Investigating, I saw SiMo jumping up and down trying to have a better look at the TV a few yards away. Staring at us from the TV was Barack Obama. Unable to understand the Arabic voice-over, all I heard was SiMo’s voice: “Ilham, look. LOOK!” Well, I did look, from SiMo’s smiling face to the TV and back again. And I did it with tears in my eyes.

Dawn to Dusk

Living here—in a culture so different yet so similar from my Southern culture—the metaphors are abundant.

One morning while drinking Starbucks coffee in a UA alumni mug, I inadvertently started staring at my sunset collage. My thoughts drifted to why I am not happy and a little miserable. Looking at picture-perfect sunset over beautiful St. Andrew Bay, it hit me.

It's because for the first nine months, I was operating in dawn mode. From September to January, I was seeing everything in first light. Embracing the new chapter in my life, soaking it all in. By February, it was time to start preparing for the future, making plans, and such. May was my morning rush hour, in a hurry to tackle what lies ahead.

Now—the sun is at high noon. Times are tough and in this heat, I am struggling. 100 degree days may not be exact but they feel that way to me, thanks to sleazy men, no work, and my current love/hate relationship with certain cultural norms. The sun bears down on me and I do what must be done, submit.

A siesta, literally and figuratively, is in my future.

I look forward to evening and the sunset.

A Barbeque of Sorts

Yesterday, I attended a summer outdoor gathering at the host family's. It was the closest thing to a barbeque that I am going to experience here. More importantly, it was one of the happiest moments of the previous 6 weeks.

America/Morocco

Guests: 20 (max)/stopped counting at 50 adults and 10 children
Food: Ribs, chicken and burgers/21 whole chickens and 20 kilos of beef
Drink: Cold beer/tea
Time to Eat: 7ish/12ish
Time to Leave: 9ish/1 (and I left early)
Grownups: Talking amongst each other and watching the kids/Men chatting, Women cooking and chatting, me watching the kids
Dessert: Really yummy Bluebell Ice Cream/Fresh fruit
Conversation Topics: Kids, Politics, Gossip/US Politics, Food, the House

Happy Birthday, Ellen!

21 years ago today, I lost my only child status. Ellen Renee came into this world as the newest member of the Whitton clan. And today, she turns the big 2-1.

The last 21 years have seen new additions and difficult losses. Through it all, she was there—whether I liked it or not.

She is currently putting the finishing touches on one phase of her life because a new and exciting phase waits in the wings. Today is for celebrating, though. Enjoy it [responsibility].

As your big sister, I wish you a very happy birthday!