The experience of being surrounded by a new language is one that is completely new to me. Language fills the room, and so much I can't decipher. I can no longer filter the sounds directly into my head for processing. There’s a cadence that I recognize but with words, I can barely distinguish one from another. I notice moreso the rhythm and pace of the silences and momentum within the conversations. I push myself to stay engaged. I could just as well be listening to a storm brewing outside, while those around me are privy to the code. They recognize the odd mix of sounds and breaks. Maybe they’re saying common everyday things, maybe sordid, juicy gossip, but unintelligent or wise, it reaches me all the same.
Yet it’s not as if I understand nothing. The world of abstract is quite apparent. The words only a fraction of what there is to understand. I’m relieved that I’ve arrived in Morocco without more knowledge of words. Those in my community can speak freely without any worry of my views or having to include me in the conversation (though they often do). They have this language to give to me before I can return the favor. It’s inseparable from the life, the culture, the people, the day. Like a child, I learn the language from the people I will speak to, doing the things I will need to talk about, in the context of the actions, so that words are not isolated, but carry meaning. That effort or nonchalance that gives meaning beyond a combination of letters is all inclusive. I see that language is strong and intertwined intricately with culture. That becomes a tool of power and a sign of respect. To embody another language is no easy task. Words are potent, but at the end of the day, only a fraction of what gives meaning to what’s being said.
10.27.08 CBT Report
During Community Based Training II, we continued to collaborate with the women of the ATMA weaving cooperative in Ait Hamza.
Taking into consideration my observations and the results of the PACA tools implemented during CBT I, I chose to focus my project on the health of the women, and the physical exhaustion and stress caused by working 40+ hours/week at the vertical Moroccan looms. This issue was one of the top priorities during the Needs Assessment of CBT I, and my suggestion to offer assistance in this area was met with great enthusiasm.
I designed a program to offer the ladies methods and exercises to do with one another, or on their own. These exercises can be done either at home or at the cooperative, wearing everyday clothes, and can be integrated into their daily routine. We began the workshops right away, and I offered six workshops throughout the two week session. The intention was to offer ways to warm and prepare the body at the start of the day, then to relieve stress and stretch muscles in the afternoon. With only slight variance, most of the same 8 women attended all sessions. Even a few of the female PCTs joined the afternoon sessions!
To encourage sustainability, I met with one of the weavers who showed particular interest in my sessions. On a Sunday morning, I met with Ytto, and her daughter, Moona, who studies English at their home. After sitting down to tea, we spent 30-minutes reviewing a series of stretches and strengthening exercises that I felt was appropriate to the weaver's needs and capabilities. With the help of Moona, I was able to explain to Ytto proper ways to approach the exercises, with possible alternatives for varying abilities. Ideally, I will create a pictorial "cheat sheet" of the exercises for Ytto to use as reference.
Because of the enthusiasm and interest of the women who participated in the "tamarin y harakut" (movement exercises) or "rryad'a" (sport), this project far exceeded my expectations. I perceive this as an important project, applicable to many sites in which the artisans are routinely physically active. Preparing the body for work, then relieving exhaustion at the end of the day has the potential to nurture productive workers. This could decrease delays due to injury and sickness, thereby increasing product output. In addition, this method offers an opportunity for socializing and participating in "sport," particularly for women. This can contribute to a sense of empowerment in regards to strength and capability, and an increase in individual awareness, which then could translate to a more positive and communicative work environment.
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