Sufism held an honored place in Kurt's heart; he could read and write some Persian, and spent years studying Sufi teachings and practices. In 1981, Kurt proposed a Zhikr Project, what is commonly called "Sufi Dancing." Contemplated as a five-evening program for 100 participants at Sac State, it was to be free of charge to the public. "The zhikr project is inspired in part by a felt need for this university to explore alternative means for the transmission of knowledge," Kurt writes. "Without sacrificing subtler insights, however, the zhikr affords a clear, objective example of effective teaching methodology." A greater understanding of Islamic and Middle Eastern culture was essential in the west, Kurt believed. Time has proven him to be correct.
