Rumi Retreat in Konya Turkey

Shannon Zapata Start Date: Jul 14, 2022 - End Date: Nov 13, 2022
  • Cultural Exchange
  • Educational/Research Trip
  • Vacation/Personal Trip
  • Konya, Turkey
  • İstanbul, Turkey

My Travel Story

by: Shannon Zapata Start Date: Jul 14, 2022 - End Date: Nov 13, 2022
  • Cultural Exchange
  • Educational/Research Trip
  • Vacation/Personal Trip
My Door to Islam was Rumi. After being raised a strict Jehovah's Witness, I left the religion at age 18. I floated between being an agnostic and an atheist. But my heart always believed in a creator. I was doomed to fail as an atheist because God continued to call me despite my refusal to belong to another organized religion. During my undergraduate college years, I carried a Pocket size Rumi book of poetry and read it between classes. It brought me peace. At the time I didn't make the connection that Rumi was an adherent practicing Muslim until years later when I met my X husband who is Turkish. I give him the credit for Introducing Islam to me. Unfortunately, it was a rocky 10-year marriage where I endured emotional and at times physical abuse. I was sent to stay in Turkey with my x mother in law multiple times throughout the marriage but wasn't allowed to travel outside her home alone. I had requested many times to go to Konya but I was only allowed to go where my husband and his family wanted us to all go. That was more than 5 Years ago. I have not been to Turkey since. I feel like returning to Turkey on my own terms will be monumental healing for me. Paying my respects and gratitude at the actual foot of  Rumi's grave will be a cathartic moment. As a single mother, unfortunately, I don't currently have the funds available. So, I am asking my friends to help make my dreams come true. This trip will include many opportunities to connect with fellow seekers on the path through workshops, concerts, and dhirk circles of remembrance. I promise to take lots of pictures and videos to share with everyone. And of course to make abundant uaa and prayers for all that help me to get there! Ameen
  • Konya, Turkey
  • İstanbul, Turkey

More Travel Information