Hello and salaams CML fam,
I've been thinking about and praying for you all during this time. Since physical distancing began, I've had the chance to talk to or check in with some of you, and the feelings that you've shared with me are so familiar. I'm praying for some relief for us all, insha'Allah.
Last week, I was feeling pretty sad and confused. Honestly, I missed normal life, a part of which was seeing YOU. I missed seeing students who drop by the CML to study or meet with one of us. I missed my weekly on-campus hours where I would run into you. I miss seeing so many faces, familiar and new, at our weekly Jum'ah at the Wellness Center.
Things are feeling a little more hopeful this week: I've had the opportunity to have one-on-ones with some of you; I got to see so many faces, familiar and new, at our virtual "Jum'ah" services; and I got to have an amazing discussion about incarceration, technology, and COVID-19 with a group of students with whom I can't wait to continue learning.
Starting next week, the CML has daily activities with staff. I speak from my own experience when I say that participating in these virtual groups (while admittedly awkward at first) has been hugely helpful and grounding. Take a look at what we have planned, and if there's something you want us to be doing that we're not, shoot me a line and let me know!
Warmest,
Maryam
