Friday, December 29, 2006
Standing on Mount Arafat
Today's been amazing in ways I cannot yet describe (as I'm too busy helping Schams coordinate a live interview, I'll write more on that later.) The climax of the Hajj is the standing on Arafat -- something I witnessed up close earlier this morning. After arriving at the Ministry of Culture and Information's campsite, Adil, Zain and I set out by foot to the Mountain of Mercy. Making our way there was a chore to be sure -- frankly speaking, I don't usually choose to go on long walks hauling a tripod, a ladder, a still camera, and a handy cam -- but once we arrived, I was overwhlemed to witness the reactions of so many pilgrims.

Well, it seems I'll have to continue this later -- the Ministry's press room is about to close and I won't have internet access again til later tonight. Stay tuned ...
awesome!!!i'm sure the whole experience must be overwhelming.best of luck to all of you there!
u guys are doing a great job covering the hajj with three million people there.You dhould also have taken this opportunity to do the hajj yourself, dont you think?Theres nothing like personal experience to really get the feel.Salam Ghaz
I think it is of critical importance that CNN reports on The Hajj and extend its coverage in such a manner as to include a full staff to report on religious matters around the world. This reporting requires a certain sophistication both culturally and theologically and it is important to world peace and understanding that such reporting take place. With all good wishes,
Michael Flessas (http://mcflessas.googlepages.com)
Thank you for covering Hajj. By watching and reading your coverage of Hajj, I am learning more and more and preparing myself (hopefully) for near future journey to perform Hajj.
Thank You,
Your coverage of the Hajj is such a wonderful idea. I have enjoyed reading these few blogs about the Hajj. I only wish that Christians could take part in this event.
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