From We to Me...

Under Turkish Sky's

I quickly stood up. "Faatimah Zahra right?" His British accent was melodious. "yeah and you are erm erm that guy..."  For the life of me I couldn't remember his name. "yes that guy....." he waited for me to finish my sentence. Blushing I said "I am sorry but it slipped my mind." He placed his hand on his heart and said "ouch. It's Yusuf or as you may remember Joe." Not this jerk again I thought. "oh yes yes Joe." "Fancy seeing you here." "It's a Public place. Anyone can be here." I remarked. He looked at me as though my words hurt him. Serves him right for always mumbling about me and walking away every time he saw me. "I have a flight to catch. " I made my way towards the exit. "You better pay for that teddy bear before you don't end up on that flight." Without realising I was walking out with the teddy bear in my hand. Seems like he is still arrogant as ever. I paid for my bear and ran towards the gate. The queue was already building up.

I rushed to where my parents were. Daddy chuckled at the sight of my bear. "Stay this way. No matter how old you are or what you achieve always gravitate towards the small things in life that bring you comfort." I gave daddy a hug. His mother tongue of Arabic really got us places in the Arab world. Sometimes people would stare at us wondering why he has a different accent to ours. As a family we had become so immune to the way he speaks that It never bothered us till someone asked. My mixed background made me a very Accepting individual. I was able to embrace people for their differences.
Three hours later we arrived in Turkey. As I peered out the window the Bhospurus caught my eye. It's deep blue waters looked so calm. Stepping out onto Turkish lands stirred a great attachment to it. Somehow everything looked far more clearer. The sky looked white, the cold air felt cleaner. I immediately felt comfortable. With various warnings replaying about the cheat Taxi drivers we were all on guard. Finding a trolley for our bags was an impossible mission on its own. As we exited the main terminal we were overwhelmed with the number of taxi services. Each one screaming their price. Eventually a voice behind us said "Assalamualykum sheikh welcome to Turkey. You need a taxi?" Daddy did the talking. "Come brother I will take you. I am Zeki." Somehow we all felt safe with him. "Come on my beautiful lady, let me carry your bags." Nani was then escorted to the taxi. Nani definitely has beautiful features. I inherited her green eyes. Her skin although wrinkled it was well taken care of. Her distinct smile lines curved her mouth. She always explained those lines were created by Nana as he always treated her like a queen. As we travelled toward our hotel the architecture of Turkey proved to be the stars of the country. Turkey is renowned for its ottoman architecture. I later learned we were staying in the Faith pronounced as Far-teh area. It was central to all tourist attractions of Istanbul. During my trip I found that Turkish people are very hospitable.
I was given the sleeper couch. Of course I didn't mind as the lounge had huge windows overlooking the city. That night I stared into the wonderment of the city. My thoughts went to Joe. His Hazel eyes.... I felt bad for being rude to him. Anyway it's too late. I won't ever get the opportunity to apologise. Can't brew over it. But there was still something about him that kept running through my head. My thoughts were cut short by a message alert. It was Zaid. I completely forgot to text him on my arrival. He seemed quite annoyed. Ten consecutive messages appeared. It definitely was a family holiday. He should understand that. I apologised for not texting and wished him good night. The next day had many exciting things planned. 

The next morning I was awoken by the sweet sound of the Azaan. Multiple Azaans could be heard. It was winter in Turkey so fajr was late. I made my wudhu and prayed. I thanked Allah for the blessings of being able to travel. Many never left their home town. The breakfast at Pierre Loti Hotel had a great variety with items we never usually would eat for breakfast. Yogurt, olives, different breads and pastries. I quickly learned that in Turkey you must ask for Lipton rather than just tea as you will be served with traditional Turkish tea. That cup requires approximately 20 teaspoons of sugar.

Under the guidance of the incredibly helpful hotel staff our day of tours began. The Blue mosque, Hagia Sophia, Grand Bazaar and Topkapi museum was merely walking distance. As we walked towards the direction of the blue mosque the tram whizzed passed us. We then approached the mosque where a few people gathered outside. A bit to my disappointment the Blue Mosque did not appear as grand as I assumed it to be. Pictures can be deceiving I guess... About 30 minutes later much to relief we were told that the Blue Mosque was actually in the opposite direction. The soft rain fell yet the hype of  the streets continued. By the mid day prayer we made our way towards the actual Blue mosque. It's stood there in its splendour. We were slightly late to join the congregation. Daddy still had to make wudhu. While waiting a sign board caught my eye. It demonstrated the dress code of visiting the mosque. I truly admired that as respect for a place of worship is vital. After the congregational prayer we were allowed in. Stepping into this mosque shadowed me with an unexplained peace. Although 100s of tourists of all religious beliefs visited it, there was a certain hush. Mummy, nani and I went to the female section and prayed. I found myself a huge pillar to sit against. I gazed up at the mosque. Each wall told a story. The round lowered chandelier brought in great warmth. The bright colours of the stained glass windows was castle like. The spherical domes hand painted to perfection. The next few days were filled with visiting more historical landmarks. Hagia Sophia or as the locals Aya Sophia. The link of two faiths. Christianity and Islam. The mosaic of Isa (Jesus) (peace be upon him) is depicted on the upper section. While the Muslim section is bordered by the instrumental heros of Islam. Topkapi museum is a step into the past, portraying vintage pieces that contributed to creating the Ottoman empire. The Haram part being most enjoyable as it holds the scared pieces of the Prophet Muhammed and his companions (Peace and blessings be upon them). The intricate architecture is mind blowing.

On the 5th day of our visit the clouds decided to give way to the sun. I decided to take a walk around the hotel. It was pretty safe. As I walked, the exotic smells of the local coffee shops engulfed me. Stacks of brightly coloured Turkish delight lay in Pyramids. Suddenly a bright red street cart caught my eye. I edged closer and saw Nutella and Bagels. Oh yes.... The note. I order one and was sure to take a picture to send to him. I smiled at the thought of him. Good taste I thought. It was divine. It was time to go back to the hotel. As I made my way back a pair of shy eyes looked at me. A child of true beauty. Her hair hanging slightly over her forehead. She smiled and placed her hand forward. The brown marks indicated hard work. I then realised she was a Syrian orphan. My heart bled for her. I wished to take her with me to the Hotel. Give her a warm bath and fluffy pyjamas. I gave her a few coins. Her smile was indescribable. Her eyes flickered with hope and gratitude. I hugged her and walked along. That day I promised myself that I would one day do something for humanity. Before entering the hotel I spotted Nani. She was happily chewing on a roasted mielie cob. My dearest nani. 

Time flew by and it was time to return home. With a heavy heart I packed my bags. Carefully placing my calligraphy tiles between my clothing. I managed to sneak one in for Zaid too. The sadness at leaving Turkey was unexpected. Usually everyone wants to get back home. I knew that I would be back there someday.I just hadn't had enough.

On our trip back everyone was sombre. I reflected on the year ahead. My results would be out within the following 3 days. I asked Allah to make them good. I really wanted to be a dr and conquer the world through my career and humanitarian work. I looked forward to life on campus. I smiled remembering Zaid would be around too.