Thursday, January 7, 2016

Arrival 
I am Mansa Musa, the King of Kings.

Finally the time has come. I have arrived in Mecca, with time to spare until the Hajj officially starts. The very air has a divine quality to it. I definitely feel as if I could spend my whole life here. With my riches, such a thing is possible. Today, I visited the Ka'ba, before the crowds of people coming for their Hajj arrive. It is a wondrous site. When my caravan set it's camp on the outskirts of Mecca, I was approached by an administrator of the city. He inquired as to my country of origin and my position there. When he learned of my kingship and the clearly evident wealth of my country, he seemed very impressed. I expect he will tell the story to all of his friends. I learned of an interesting tradition here in Mecca. It is customary among Arab travelers in the desert to water your camels before drinking yourself. This is because the camel has most likely worked harder than you have. It is a sign of respect to the animal, and also a recognition of the gifts Allah gives to us. I have learned many things on this journey. Soon, it will be complete.

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