Finding Friendship Amidst Differences

Prolong

In the heart of Whispers of Aqsa, a blog inspired by the rich history and profound significance of Masjid al-Aqsa or Jerusalem, lies a simple yet powerful belief. Named after this sacred place and Aqs’a name, Whispers of Aqsa aims to bridge the gaps between the followers of Abrahamic religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Amidst the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine, stories that foster understanding and unity have never been more crucial. Whispers of Aqsa believes that sharing personal tales of friendship, struggle, and growth can light the way to peace. We hope to weave a tapestry of empathy that transcends borders and beliefs with each story. The next entry will delve into the life of Aqsa’s friend in Afghanistan, exploring their challenges in pursuing education, facing forced marriages at tender ages, and witnessing the atrocities against girls and women. But today, Aqsa shares her own journey of navigating friendships in a new country, proving that even the smallest connections can contribute to bridging worlds apart.

Navigating New Friendships in America

I moved to the USA about four years ago, and wow, making real friends at Dr. Drew Elementary School has been a bit of a roller coaster! I’ve met lots of kids like Camila, Annaclaire, Lia, and a bunch more, but sometimes I wonder if they really like me for me, you know?

Some of my classmates, like Justin, Luis, and Jayden, feel more like classmates than true friends, assisting each other occasionally without deeper bonds. But then there’s Camila, Annaclaire, Lia, Nayelli, Shirley, and Phaedra – they’re like my squad. Camila and Annaclaire are my best besties. We’ve been through a lot together since third grade, especially with learning all about our school and sticking together through thick and thin.

Camila and I didn’t start off on the right foot (we had a big fight over shaking chocolate milk!), but now we’re really close. We play soccer, have lunch together every day, and just have a blast.

Our teachers, Ms. Kane, Ms. Chervin, and Mr. W, make school interesting in their own ways. Ms. Kane is super nice and helps us with reading and writing. Ms. Chervin is kinda and strict, and Mr. W… well, he’s tough, especially when he takes away our recess time for talking! I mean, really? Then he puts us in a freezing cold lunch area without jackets. He says our jackets will get dirty and our parents will not be happy about it. He does not care if we get sick. I have felt a sore throat since yesterday! I really miss my old teacher, Mr. Combs.

Amidst the above-mentioned challenges, an incident during lunchtime tested my resolve. Wrongly accused of running, I faced unjust punishment, a moment that brought frustration and tears. Yet, the presence of my friends and their unwavering support affirmed my decision to stay put and never complain to my father. I know he is very strict when it comes to his children and what is unjustly being done to them. Anyway, my friends’ companionship has been my stronghold, a source of joy and comfort in a world far from home, Afghanistan, a country I dearly miss and would miss my entire life, I believe.

So, that’s a little about my journey of making friends in a new place. It’s just one small story among so many out there. By sharing our experiences, I hope we can all understand each other a bit better and make the world a friendlier place. Keep an eye out for my next story about my friend in Afghanistan. It will be a tough one, but it’s really important.

Remember, every little whisper can start a wave of change. Let’s make those whispers together!