Yasmine El Baggari, Founder & CEO of 1 Voyaj, Morocco

I had just arrived to the Nile in ancient Luxor, Egypt, after spending a few days in Cairo for the Women Economic Forum.

I sat in the balcony outside on the boat with my sister Susan. We had pulled a few Rumi cards, and were laughing hysterically at the magic and beauty surrounding us. We exchanged stories, hardships, and dreams. The breeze outside felt so familiar, as if we had been there before. Perhaps, centuries ago.

We had set an intention to visit the pyramids and go on a spiritual journey together. The royal tombs of the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens called us. The journey thus far was graceful, peaceful, creative, and gentle.

That same evening, as we arrived, the world had begun to shift with the reality of the Covid-19 pandemic.

After dinner and a glass of water, we were asked to evacuate immediately and catch the next flight out.

Susan had to return to Northampton, Massachusetts, where her kids were living, while I had to go back to Morocco for my 12-month, legal J-1 requirement.

Masks on, we drove 9 hours, and airports closed the moment we took off.

The life by the Mediterranean Sea in Northern Morocco was awaiting me. The recconnection to my roots, origins I had dreamt of ever since I left.

It was my hope,
to remain still,
and listen. —Rumi