05.03.23
When everyone does what they want in life, everyone is the happiest.
We are sitting at the entrance to the campsite. Ayoub, a friend and the owner of the campsite in Quzazate, is running back and forth between the office, the construction site of the new restaurant and the French tourists who need his help. Next to us, a wall is being replastered. It’s hot and dusty. Every few minutes a huge white camper van arrives, bringing both customers and work. The interview takes place in several sessions. From time to time I have to wait to restart Google Translate.
SALĀM ALEIKUM!
WHAT’S YOUR NAME?
WHAT GENDER ARE YOU?
WHERE DO YOU LIVE?
In Quarzazate in Morocco.
WHAT ARE YOU DOING RIGHT NOW?
Tell me about your Past:
Where did you grow up?
In the desert. A little town called Mhamid ca. four hours cardrive away from Quarzazate.
How was the contact with your family?
My father died early. I lived with my mom and my four siblings.
School/Kindergarden/University?
No. I never went to school or anything else.
What have you done with your time instead?
I worked as a tour guide for camel tours in the the Sahara. Moreover, I took photographs and sold them.
Hobbies?
Lots of football! Watching and playing with my friends.
And Dreams?
No.
Today?
How does your life look like today?
I work at my friend’s campsite. In my free time I sometimes travel to neighbouring cities like Agadir or Marrakech. From time to time I’m an extra or even a stuntman in films being made at the Atlas Film Studios next door.
What’s your favourite activity?
I have a house called “Big Caspar” in Rosen Valley nearby. It belonged to my father before he died. It’s mine now and I enjoy spending time there.
How important is religion to you?
Very important! I am Muslim, I go to the mosque and fast during Ramadan. However, I have to quit drinking. During prayers you have to be sober so you can be present!
Plans for the future?
What else do you want to achieve in life?
The house I was just talking about. I need to renovate it before I can move in. Afterwards I get my mother from Mhamid and we live there.
What about family?
In the future. Not now. First the money for the renovation, then family.
Said, would you say you’re happy?
I like to live. I like my life.
Nothing you would change?
Definitely stop drinking and smoking. But I can’t think of more right now.
One last question!
What would you say if you could speak to the whole of humanity? If they could all listen to you?
When everybody does what they want in life, everyone is the happiest!
That works?
Inshallah!
There is so much meaning in that word. I had goose bumps. The exchange and new contacts are so enriching. 10 minutes later Luzi and I left. We didn’t have to pay anything, although we insisted.
Inshallah! This was certainly not our last time at the Ouarzazate campsite.
