Yesterday was my birthday and the first day in Tangier. We didn't arrive to the American School in Tangier till about 6am. They had breakfast ready for us and then we slept till about 1pm and had lunch ready for us. Most of the day was dedicated to us getting quickly adjusted to the new time zone and learning the ins and outs of Tangier and the program. In the evening we walked about the city. It is completely different than America. People are out around the town till about midnight on the weekdays, shops are still open even the outdoor markets. We found a Gelateria about a 10 minute walk from the school. The waiters sung to me "Happy Birthday" in French, English and Arabic. It was really exciting.
Today we signed the Language Pledge. CLS follows a very strict no English policy. For me and a few students who have taken very little Arabic its been quite the challenge. For me I found it incredibly frustrating simply because oral communication is one of my greatest skills. Anyone who knows me knows that I love to be expressive, tell detailed stories and use flowery language. Not being able to communicate the most simplest of ideas freaks me out. Even more, I couldn't understand when the program director was giving directions. One of the worst feelings is to feel incompetent. I felt like a little lost child.
Not only am I learning Arabic while I'm here, I am also learning Darija, which is the local Moroccan dialect. Most of the words varies greatly from MSA (fusa). The CLS program is great because they actually provide "language partners" who are Moroccan citizens of about the same age to hang out around the city and practice Darija with. Most of the language partners don't speak English, so the temptation to slip back doesn't achieve much because they won't understand you. My language partner is so sweet, her name is Hynd. As we walked to the Medina Kadem (Old City of Tangier -major Spanish influences )we did a lot of pointing and naming. I can't wait to the day when I'll be able to have a free flowing conversation in Arabic. I do believe that goal is achievable in this short 8 weeks.
I have tons of homework for the weekend and a goal of learning and committing 50 words by Monday. I'll be checking off of social media and English of any kind for the weekend. I can not live without the ability to communicate.
I completely understand the frustrations of not being able to communicate as expressively as you do in English! I face that same issue with my Portuguese. But just have to look at it as temporary.. I'm so excited to hear about your Moroccan adventures! Look forward to reading more :)
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