Even though my ICR is through the Al-Fajr Muslim Center, I’ve noticed plenty of similarities to the current unit on China. I think that a lot of the readings that we’ve been doing for class have had a big focus on cultural differences and focus a lot on people experiencing and adapting to these cultural differences. As I was born and raised in Plainfield, Indiana, I obviously haven’t had many opportunities to experience other cultures. However, within Al-Fajr not only do I get to experience the overall differences of the Muslim community, but I even get to experience differences within the Muslim community itself. Over my past several visits to Al-Fajr I’ve gotten to attend multiple prayer services, meet lots of new people, and be able to help and connect with the community. I’ve met older more traditional Muslims, and I’ve met younger more liberal Muslims who have all had different ideas and experiences to share with me. It’s been a great experience so far, but it was still a big culture shock at first and I think this where it relates to a lot of the Ha Jin readings. In many of his stories the characters are experiencing cultural differences, whether it is in or out of China. They all have to adapt to these new cultures and I think that’s what I’ve been doing during my time volunteering. I’m excited to start the unit on Islam as I think it will only enrich my experience and help me get more out of it.
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