I must admit I don't offer my prayers regularly. In the past years, I have offered only Eid prayers. But today I prayed three times in the mosque where I am staying tonight. In comparison to cycling day in and day out, and doing sight seeing like a typical tourist over the past two months, it was a very spiritual experience to offer the prayers in this mosque located in a tiny village in Tajikistan.
I met local people who came to mosque for praying and I was repeatedly welcomed by them who would say, "Khush Amdeed", by holding their right hand against their chest.
Before Isha prayer, salty rice pudding (Shir Birinj) with bread was served in a big dish and everyone ate together. Before an elderly gentleman made tea for me. I boiled water in a kettle and made instant noodles for me. Now everyone has left the mosque except me. My bed is ready. A blanket has been provided to me, and I am ready to fall asleep. The last time I slept in the mosque, I was only 13.
Good night!
