P.E.A.C.E. Cultural Exchange

Welcome, Marhaba!

I'm traveling in Morocco now, sharing about peace, taking photos and creating videos that include some English, French and Arabic. Learning more Moroccan Arabic (Darija) words every day! Rachid, my partner in life, is leading me on a beautiful journey through Morocco that's full of delights for the senses!

Over the last five years I've stayed in Pakistan, United Arab Emirates and Morocco. My heart found its home in the Arabic-speaking countries during my first year of international travel, no matter where else in the world I went. I found fast and fun ways to learn Arabic as I traveled. Now Rachid and I share many cultural riches in Cultural Exchange Playshops for children and adults around the world.

Contrary to popular beliefs, I find the people here to be kind, sweet, happy, generous, open, loving and friendly. I'm an American, and everyone I've met genuinely likes Americans and loves American culture! We listen to American music, Arabic music and watch TV shows from many countries. Yesterday I watched a few MTV programs that have been translated into Arabic! Really funny to watch Ashton Kutcher's Punked with subtitles, and Pimp My Ride in Arabic! Many of our programs are watched with enjoyment, tenderness and intrigue.

Some of my friends and family members have been afraid that my experiences here might be horrific. I hope that the blog posts and photos bring international understanding, friendships and increased peace. Maybe I’m optimistic, but I believe that we and our children can create world peace in our lifetime. I hope the fear of our Arabic-speaking brothers and sisters dissolves, and our enjoyment of each other increases as we get to know each other better.

Here are some of my favorite inspiring videos promoting world peace, fun, friendship and understanding. Watch the videos, and if you'd like to do something for Peace Day, check out what Jeremy Gilley and friends are doing for Peace One Day: http://www.peaceoneday.org Warning, these videos may induce smiles, laughter or tears:

Peace One Day Concert, Jeremy Gilley and Friends!