Imagine getting a new job and then asking for extended time off in the first six months.

For many people, this would be unthinkable, but not for Aichetou Haidara, a command support squadron Human Resources Specialist for the 127th Mission Support Group, Michigan National Guard. She felt comfortable doing so because of the support from her co-workers, but also because this was no ordinary trip.

Haidara was embarking on the Hajj, a five-day pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, that every Muslim must make at least once in their lifetime, if able.

“I’ve always had it in the back of my mind, but my sister and my husband, like they kind of pushed me into it because they’ve completed it before,” Haidara said.

As a civilian employee without any military background, she was worried about what extended time away might do for her job security. But she was reassured by her leadership it wasn’t an issue.

“They said: ‘Your job is secure. You’ll be OK,” Haidara said. “Just go ahead and do what you have to do. When you come back, you just pick up where you left off.’”

Without having to worry about her job, she was now ready for the hard part — embarking on the trip. But before she could do that, she needed to do research. Millions of people from around the world go on the Hajj and she needed to be well-prepared for it to be a success.

“Every time I encountered some people that have completed the Hajj, I’ll ask them questions to help me prepare for it and to see what kind of support I needed,” Haidara said. “It’s not cheap. It averages anywhere between $14,000 to $19,000. So yes, basically a lifetime saving for most people.”

After Haidara completed planning, the time finally came for her to embark on her journey. After she arrived in Mecca, she was overwhelmed. With millions of people from different cultures all over the world, Haidara was blown away by it all.

“It was very emotional,” Haidara said. “I had tears in my eyes just being there, being surrounded by millions of people and everybody’s here for the same cause.”

As powerful as that was, it wasn’t without its challenges.

On top of millions of people convening on Mecca, there was the intense Saudi Arabian heat to contend with. Part of the Hajj includes walking 13-20 miles a day, traveling to different sites while in the 115 F heat. Haidara said she saw people pass out frequently. Around 1,300 people died during this Hajj — a reality that shocked her.

After Haidara safely completed the Hajj, she stayed in Mecca a little longer to rest and recuperate. After reflecting on her experience, she found she has become more patient, humble and understanding — qualities that help her in her job with the 127th Wing. It gave her a greater desire to do good and to help people.

“It’s a blessing to be healthy. It’s a blessing to have a job. It’s a blessing to be breathing. It’s a blessing to be walking,” Haidara said.

Upon returning home from the Hajj and going back to work, Haidara feels her perspective has changed and she is very grateful to her military leadership that she was able to go. Now she can give advice to others considering the Hajj.

“It’s mentally, physically, financially draining. So, you have to do your own research.” Haidara said. “Just get yourself an idea of what it is, but go into the mindset not expecting anything, because it’s not what you’re going to expect.”