Last night at 1 a.m., Israeli forces raided the orphanage and orphanage's sewing factory in Hebron (where I spent the night a few weeks back). See http://www.maannews.net/en/index.php?opr=ShowDetails&ID=29007 for more info.
It sounds like the orphanage itself (and, specifically the boys section) remains open, but I'm still waiting for more details.
This raid accompanies many other raids by the Israeli military last night, including the kidnappings of about 30 people in cities North of here. I wonder what the point is of conducting these raids in the middle of the night, other than that night raids strike terror in families and children.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Monday, April 28, 2008
Open with Care! A very disturbing Photograph
This is an example of the disturbing images that flood the Palestinian media here. I doubt we will ever see anything like this from international media networks.
I have mixed feelings about images like this. I wish that people could just hear or read the information and make an informed decision. But, unfortunately, some people need to see photos (think, Abu Gharaib) to spark them to action. Here, the people are so desensitized to the violence that they need increasingly disturbing images (I fear) to elicit a reaction.
This photo comes from today's killings in Gaza. I'm sure both sides have photos and stories to tell like this. When will everyone decide enough is enough? The link to this photo and story: http://www.maannews.net/en/index.php?opr=ShowDetails&ID=28958
I have mixed feelings about images like this. I wish that people could just hear or read the information and make an informed decision. But, unfortunately, some people need to see photos (think, Abu Gharaib) to spark them to action. Here, the people are so desensitized to the violence that they need increasingly disturbing images (I fear) to elicit a reaction.
This photo comes from today's killings in Gaza. I'm sure both sides have photos and stories to tell like this. When will everyone decide enough is enough? The link to this photo and story: http://www.maannews.net/en/index.php?opr=ShowDetails&ID=28958
The Move; Escalation?; Arabic; Pics, etc.
In this post: Moving into the new house/family; is there an escalation in violence here or just the norm?; learning the local dialect; Google Earth images; Pics; etc.
One of my favorite pics so far. An international musician planned a concert where people on both sides of the Wall would play on their roof tops, communicating to the world that the Wall will not keep them from making music together and being a community. This man was part of the concert.
Taken from inside Aida Camp. Some of you may remember a photo of this part of the Wall from my last visit. Janelle lives right next door to this section of the Wall. An Israeli settlement looms in the background.
Inside the Aida Mosque.
The computer lab where I work at the Center.
Cleaning in the Mosque.
Since the last post, I've been busy getting to know my new home and family. It seems like, in some ways, life is always in flux here, whether because of the occupation or other reasons. There's lots of construction yet to do in the apartment I share with the two other guys in their 20's (part of the family's house), so my bedroom is rearranged and cleaned almost ever day. In my experience with Palestinians so far, I am incredibly impressed with how often they clean their homes. Almost every day, they are throwing water down and squeegeeing the walls and floors (most often made of tile, with drains in the floor to catch the water)
The other night, we had a wind/dust storm blow in, and we didn't have glass over our windows yet, so I spent the night trying to drown out the sound of the wind blowing at 3-4 stories high. Thankfully, we now have glass over the windows, and I'm hoping the next project will be to get a shower and sink in our bathroom (for now, we use the downstairs one).
I'm enjoying the family, though, and trying to “speak” Arabic as much as possible.
There were middle of the night Israeli military raids and kidnappings all up and down the West Bank last night, including Bethlehem. And, I awoke this morning to the news of more children being killed by the Israeli military in Gaza. Someone asked me yesterday, How do you feel with the escalation in violence there? I'm trying to figure out if there is really a change in the violence here, or if it just seems like there's more because I'm living here and following things more closely. There is so much that happens here that the international media just ignores (maybe because military raids and kidnappings are fairly normal here).
It seems like I'm learning at least two languages, if not more. I studied standard, classical Arabic in the States, but that's not what they speak here (it's not really spoken anywhere, but most Arabs understand it). So, people can understand me when I speak, but I can't understand them. So, I'm making a conscious effort to learn the local dialect too. Some people question whether I should do that, since I'll be learning a “bad” dialect or accent from the camps. But, I'm tired of the elitist idea of only learning dead languages I can read but can't speak. Part of relating with the poor and oppressed, I think, is to go to their “level” and interact with them. So yes, I want to learn the bad grammar and words here, even if it means speaking a more bastardized form of the language. At least I'll be able to understand and communicate with the people (if I can pick up the language). Maybe eventually, I'll do more study of the standard form (which helps when you want to talk to other people across the Arab world).
I've been perusing Google Earth the last few days, and it's interesting to look at where I live. You can definitely tell by the satellite images that I'm living in a refugee camp—the pictures show how closely packed together the “houses” are compared to the rest of the area. You can also see the Israeli settlements and the Wall, which is right on the border of Aida Camp. Many of the pictures I took of the Wall last time are right next to where I live. It's a little earie to think of how ironically close I was to where I would end up living.
Here are just a few pics. It takes a long time to upload them.
One of my favorite pics so far. An international musician planned a concert where people on both sides of the Wall would play on their roof tops, communicating to the world that the Wall will not keep them from making music together and being a community. This man was part of the concert.
Taken from inside Aida Camp. Some of you may remember a photo of this part of the Wall from my last visit. Janelle lives right next door to this section of the Wall. An Israeli settlement looms in the background.
Inside the Aida Mosque.
The computer lab where I work at the Center.
Cleaning in the Mosque.
Friday, April 25, 2008
Footnote(s) to last post
To see the news article about the story of the boys wounded in Bethlehem, see http://www.maannews.net/en/index.php?opr=ShowDetails&ID=28888
Also, another story today at the same website talks about the UN's inability to deliver humanitarian services to Gaza because Israel impedes the UN's work (Israel doesn't give enough gas to UN--this has happened many times before, too). When Israel impedes the UN's vital services to a civilian population, you really have to ask who's doing more harassing and terrorism of civilian population. http://www.maannews.net/en/index.php?opr=ShowDetails&ID=28918
Also, a couple things I forgot to include in the last post (briefly): I was invited to have lunch at my favorite students house the other day, and I also had tea with the man's family who gave me a tour of the mosque here. The tour, if I didn't mention before, was quite amazing. I had the opportunity to climb up the tower of the Mosque for a commanding view of the countryside, and I also got to see the women's part of the Mosque, which is usually off-limits for men.
Also, another story today at the same website talks about the UN's inability to deliver humanitarian services to Gaza because Israel impedes the UN's work (Israel doesn't give enough gas to UN--this has happened many times before, too). When Israel impedes the UN's vital services to a civilian population, you really have to ask who's doing more harassing and terrorism of civilian population. http://www.maannews.net/en/index.php?opr=ShowDetails&ID=28918
Also, a couple things I forgot to include in the last post (briefly): I was invited to have lunch at my favorite students house the other day, and I also had tea with the man's family who gave me a tour of the mosque here. The tour, if I didn't mention before, was quite amazing. I had the opportunity to climb up the tower of the Mosque for a commanding view of the countryside, and I also got to see the women's part of the Mosque, which is usually off-limits for men.
A Move, Wounded in Deheisha reflection, Work Ethic, etc.
In this post: My move to a family's house; water and accommodation's in Aida; Boys wounded in Bethlehem reflection; Work Ethic reflection; finding time to write; ironies; etc.
I'm moving into the family's house in Aza refugee camp (5 min. walk from Aida) this afternoon. I've had several warm visits with them, and the space will be much better for me to work on Arabic, interact with a Pal. family, and do other work (better i-net access there). I will live on the 4th floor of the house with three of the boys in the family in their 20s. They've just finished building this floor, and the accommodations seems nice with a good view and breezes. For those of you familiar with the area, the house faces Arafat St.
I'm feeling a little better, although I'm not completely over some sort of respiratory sickness.
We have had water on and off for the last several days since water has “returned” to the camp. It's frustrating because you never know when you turn the faucet on whether there will be water, and you never know when you start a shower if the water will not run out before you finish.
The accommodations in the volunteers center at Aida camp have not been the best, but not as bad as they could be either. I take a shower, after some jerry-rigging, with the equivalent of an aerator in a US kitchen sink (the aerator was previously used for people to clean themselves after using the toilet, but since we had no shower nozzle in the house, I hooked the aerator up to the hot water source and received a better amount of water pressure because the water was forced through the small holes of the aerator). The water pressure is not good, though, and I have to continuously turn the hot water heater on and off to keep from getting scalded, all the while holding the aerator button down to receive a water flow.
The other day, I saw on the news that five boys from Deheisha refugee camp (on the other side of Bethlehem, maybe 2-3 miles from here) were injured when Israeli soldiers opened upon them with live gun fire for throwing rocks at the soldiers. The youngest boy injured was 13, the oldest 18. The soldiers really have no business in this area, but I'm not going to defend rock-throwing either.
But, this incident made me think about several things, maybe because Deheisha is quite close to here, and a sister camp to Aida. Why is it necessary to respond to stones with live gunfire? Why are the soldiers in this area to begin with?
The conflict here reminds me of the story of David and Goliath, except the aggressors this time are the Israelis. Like the story in the Jewish scriptures, a land is under occupation, and the aggressors parade around on the occupied land, taunting the victims values, religion, freedom, etc. But, unlike the old story, in this one, most of the victims don't have sling shots: they just throw rocks instead. And, the Goliath here isn't just a 10 ft. tall giant with a big shield and spear; rather, he's a much stronger giant with an automatic rifle, body armor, tanks, and jets.
Somehow, we're able to identify with the underdog in the story in the Jewish scriptures, and we even, in some way, pardon him for throwing rocks and cutting off the giants head. But, in the modern day, we don't take up the case of the underdog at all, often, even when the disparities are much greater.
Life is slow here in the camp, at least for the time being. But, I imagine that life is mostly slow here, as unemployment is high, and people have little to look forward to—few ways to leave the camp, and few ways to improve their lives significantly. I'm starting to believe that this stagnation, combined with poverty, has created a culture of a different work-ethic from what we have in the US.
Like many third world countries, people here do things on a different schedule. It's ensha'lla—God willing—that anything will happen or get accomplished in the future. Even where I work, people might show up for work on time (which isn't always a given), but that doesn't mean they're actually “working.” There's a lot of sitting around, talking, drinking tea and coffee, and just watching the students play games.
Maybe it's good for me—this different, slower pace. I'm a high-octane, get things done now kind of person, so it's hard to me to just sit around. Thankfully, I have Arabic to work on with people, otherwise, I'd be really bored.
But, really, what are these people supposed to do? They've been here for 60 years, and little has changed, so what's the point of hurrying up and doing something? I've seen this culture in some other places too, where the economy is so bad, there's really no point to hurry up and do something, because there's nothing really to do. And, even if the circumstances change, the slower culture has already been created, and the people may not adapt right away (it could take a generation or two for things to really change).
Maybe it's just the hot weather here too. I've certainly had less energy some days because of it. But, on the other hand, is it always better for a culture to “develop” and for people to start dieing of heart attacks because they're sooo stressed out from getting things done now? But, as I say, it's going to take some adjustment for me.
I'm going to try to blog when I have more energy (not late in the afternoon here). I've noticed that my ability to remember events or articulate them well decreases late in the day. Sometimes, I feel frustrated when I sit down to write, because earlier in the day, I had some really good ideas of what to write or how to say something, but when I start to write, it all disappears. So, I'll be looking for a different time to write, and, perhaps, a more quite place.
In the mean time, life here goes on. In general, I'm happy and enjoying getting to know people here. I even have to be careful who I talk to on the street now, because even if I don't have time, I can be randomly invited into someone's house for a long spell of coffee and tea (it's impossible to say “no,” sometimes). The hospitality here never ceases to amaze me!
And, even those roving gangs of small children cease to harass you so much once you have a relationship with them. They can still cause problems once in a while, but it's not as bad as before. Now, I feel torn because if some small child starts to harass me, a bigger kid usually shows up and defends me, which isn't always good since the defending often includes yelling, kicking and hitting. So, I want to say “Thank you!” and “No!” at the same time.
So continues the never ending chain of ironies here.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Water back; Crowding & Children; etc.
In this post: the water's back on; children of the 2nd intifada; cell phone; etc.
I awoke this morning planning to wash my body off with water bottles, when I realized that the water had been turned back on in the camp!! You don't realize what you take for granted until it's taken away, I guess. It was sooo nice to have water in the house again.
I have watched people line up to fill water bottles from a hose running into the camp from outside. It's been hot here, and it's hard to imagine what will happen when it gets hotter this summer.
I started to feel a little sick today (sore throat, low energy), so I'm taking it easy, drinking lots of the glorious water, etc. One woman from the camp said this morning, "Water is life," and that phrase never has held so much meaning to me. I don't understand how people can be denied water. Isn't this a fundamental human right???
The pictures that I've taken so far don't give any idea of how crowded it is here. I've taken many pictures when less people are on the street (when it's hot in the day), but for most of the day and evening, there are many children in the streets. Some of the children are like roaming gangs, and it's hard to control them.
You can see an almost visible distinction between those who were born during the 2nd Intifada (2000--2003ish) and those who were not. One older man the other day said, "These children today are crazy. You can't control them." There are many exceptions to this generalization, but it is true that the children born during the huge upturn in violence can themselves be terrors today.
But, at the same time, the family unit here can be incredibly tight. Unlike other ghettos where the family unit has broken down, Palestinian refugees have shown an amazing ability to persist and stay together.
I showed a few kids today pictures of the area from Google Earth. It was so sad, seeing how closely packed the camp looks on satelite. We could even see the Wall (one of the borders of the camp).
I'll be posting some more pics in the next day or two. I'm trying not to post pics that show lots of people's faces (including my own), so please excuse if some of them seem impersonal.
Someone donated their cell phone to me, so I now have two cells: one for the W Bank and one for Israel (which doesn't work well in the W Bank). If you need either number, please email me.
I awoke this morning planning to wash my body off with water bottles, when I realized that the water had been turned back on in the camp!! You don't realize what you take for granted until it's taken away, I guess. It was sooo nice to have water in the house again.
I have watched people line up to fill water bottles from a hose running into the camp from outside. It's been hot here, and it's hard to imagine what will happen when it gets hotter this summer.
I started to feel a little sick today (sore throat, low energy), so I'm taking it easy, drinking lots of the glorious water, etc. One woman from the camp said this morning, "Water is life," and that phrase never has held so much meaning to me. I don't understand how people can be denied water. Isn't this a fundamental human right???
The pictures that I've taken so far don't give any idea of how crowded it is here. I've taken many pictures when less people are on the street (when it's hot in the day), but for most of the day and evening, there are many children in the streets. Some of the children are like roaming gangs, and it's hard to control them.
You can see an almost visible distinction between those who were born during the 2nd Intifada (2000--2003ish) and those who were not. One older man the other day said, "These children today are crazy. You can't control them." There are many exceptions to this generalization, but it is true that the children born during the huge upturn in violence can themselves be terrors today.
But, at the same time, the family unit here can be incredibly tight. Unlike other ghettos where the family unit has broken down, Palestinian refugees have shown an amazing ability to persist and stay together.
I showed a few kids today pictures of the area from Google Earth. It was so sad, seeing how closely packed the camp looks on satelite. We could even see the Wall (one of the borders of the camp).
I'll be posting some more pics in the next day or two. I'm trying not to post pics that show lots of people's faces (including my own), so please excuse if some of them seem impersonal.
Someone donated their cell phone to me, so I now have two cells: one for the W Bank and one for Israel (which doesn't work well in the W Bank). If you need either number, please email me.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Renewal of Tax-deductible Contributions Acct.
I have been notified that University Friends Meeting can again accept tax-deductible donations for my work here at Aida camp. There were a few chinks to work out, but we are now ready and able to receive funds again. Please see the note below about how to make a contribution. If you wish to send funds directly to me, let me know, and we'll work something out.
My financial situation here is more tight than I anticipated. Particularly, the cost of food and transportation is slightly steeper than I budgeted. Please let me know if you need a detailed account of my financial situation, and I will accommodate.
Thanks!
"You can make private, tax-deductible contributions payable to University Friends Meeting (4001 9th Ave. NE / Seattle, WA 98105). When you send a contribution to UFM, please include a note specifying your support of my trip; UFM can mail you a receipt for tax purposes. Since UFM does not give me the details of who contributes to the fund, I can only say “Thank You” in advance for your financial support (I will not know who gives or how much). Please know that all amounts, regardless of how small, make a difference."
My financial situation here is more tight than I anticipated. Particularly, the cost of food and transportation is slightly steeper than I budgeted. Please let me know if you need a detailed account of my financial situation, and I will accommodate.
Thanks!
"You can make private, tax-deductible contributions payable to University Friends Meeting (4001 9th Ave. NE / Seattle, WA 98105). When you send a contribution to UFM, please include a note specifying your support of my trip; UFM can mail you a receipt for tax purposes. Since UFM does not give me the details of who contributes to the fund, I can only say “Thank You” in advance for your financial support (I will not know who gives or how much). Please know that all amounts, regardless of how small, make a difference."
Monday, April 21, 2008
Weekend, Homestay, Water, Websites, etc.
In this post: The weekend in Jerusalem/Ramallah; an opportunity for a homestay with a family; No water in the camp still; some websites for info on the area; touring the camp's mosque, etc.
I had a good day and a half away from the camp this weekend. Janelle and I traveled to Jerusalem Fri. night, spent the night there, and traveled to Ramallah, then back to Bethlehem on Sat.
The West Bank and Gaza are completely sealed off for Palestinians during the Passover season. Internationals like myself have no problem getting through the borders, but if you have a Palestinian ID, the almost impossible access to Israel is literally impossible right now. I did feel a little guilt at being able to get away when Palestinians can't, but I tried to justify it by telling myself I was going to go the weekend before, but wasn't able to do to the circumstances. I also justify it by telling myself that it's important to get away in order to stay here for the long haul.
But, it is difficult, telling Palestinians here that I'm going to Jerusalem for the weekend, knowing full-well they can't go to Jerusalem (6.5 miles away).
Leaving Ramallah on Sun. to go back to Jerusalem to catch the bus to Bethlehem, we had to go through a significant checkpoint, and I witnessed soldiers giving some youth (approx. 15) a hard time--trapping them in the turn-styles, yelling at them, etc. Then, our bus met a flying checkpoint after the big checkpoint. This entailed an Israeli soldier waving down our bus and climbing on-board, demanding to see everyone's passports or ID. I took pictures of the various events and tried to remain visible as an intl--soldiers are less likely to give Pal.'s trouble if intl's are watching.
I visited a family yesterday I might be able to do a homestay with. They live in a refugee camp just beside Aida camp. I was told it was probably the smallest camp in Palestine, so when I asked how big it was, I expected to hear a few hundred people. It's actually around 3,000! Anyway, I'm hoping to be able to live with this family; they have three sons (in 20's), and one son in prison (one son just got out of prison, and the father's recently been in Israeli prison too). It's quite rare to find any male over 20 who hasn't been in an Israeli prison.
The one son who does speak some English is studying to be a teacher; the others are police officers for the Palestinian Authority or aspiring to be. I felt very welcome at their house and look forward to an opportunity to speak more Arabic.
Our camp is still without water! We first ran out of cold water, but now we have none. They're working to fix the problem, but it's very inconvenient right now.
Here are a few websites you can use to get news on what's going on here: www.maannews.net; www.haaretz.com. The Palestinian-Israeli conflict is at the fore-front of news agencies here, and I'm surprised I don't see more of it in the international press.
I had the opportunity to tour the camp's mosque today, which I was really excited about. I was just walking by the mosque when some guys invited me in; then, I ran into someone there I had met before, and he showed me around. It turns out he's actually the architect of the building, so he was able to take me up to the top of the tower and down to the bottom where the women worship (a rare treat)! I felt very privileged, and I hope to be able to pray there with them sometime.
I'm finally starting to get into a sort of routine here, and that feels good. My Arabic is coming along okay, and I'm anxious to be able to understand more or the spoken word.
I had a good day and a half away from the camp this weekend. Janelle and I traveled to Jerusalem Fri. night, spent the night there, and traveled to Ramallah, then back to Bethlehem on Sat.
The West Bank and Gaza are completely sealed off for Palestinians during the Passover season. Internationals like myself have no problem getting through the borders, but if you have a Palestinian ID, the almost impossible access to Israel is literally impossible right now. I did feel a little guilt at being able to get away when Palestinians can't, but I tried to justify it by telling myself I was going to go the weekend before, but wasn't able to do to the circumstances. I also justify it by telling myself that it's important to get away in order to stay here for the long haul.
But, it is difficult, telling Palestinians here that I'm going to Jerusalem for the weekend, knowing full-well they can't go to Jerusalem (6.5 miles away).
Leaving Ramallah on Sun. to go back to Jerusalem to catch the bus to Bethlehem, we had to go through a significant checkpoint, and I witnessed soldiers giving some youth (approx. 15) a hard time--trapping them in the turn-styles, yelling at them, etc. Then, our bus met a flying checkpoint after the big checkpoint. This entailed an Israeli soldier waving down our bus and climbing on-board, demanding to see everyone's passports or ID. I took pictures of the various events and tried to remain visible as an intl--soldiers are less likely to give Pal.'s trouble if intl's are watching.
I visited a family yesterday I might be able to do a homestay with. They live in a refugee camp just beside Aida camp. I was told it was probably the smallest camp in Palestine, so when I asked how big it was, I expected to hear a few hundred people. It's actually around 3,000! Anyway, I'm hoping to be able to live with this family; they have three sons (in 20's), and one son in prison (one son just got out of prison, and the father's recently been in Israeli prison too). It's quite rare to find any male over 20 who hasn't been in an Israeli prison.
The one son who does speak some English is studying to be a teacher; the others are police officers for the Palestinian Authority or aspiring to be. I felt very welcome at their house and look forward to an opportunity to speak more Arabic.
Our camp is still without water! We first ran out of cold water, but now we have none. They're working to fix the problem, but it's very inconvenient right now.
Here are a few websites you can use to get news on what's going on here: www.maannews.net; www.haaretz.com. The Palestinian-Israeli conflict is at the fore-front of news agencies here, and I'm surprised I don't see more of it in the international press.
I had the opportunity to tour the camp's mosque today, which I was really excited about. I was just walking by the mosque when some guys invited me in; then, I ran into someone there I had met before, and he showed me around. It turns out he's actually the architect of the building, so he was able to take me up to the top of the tower and down to the bottom where the women worship (a rare treat)! I felt very privileged, and I hope to be able to pray there with them sometime.
I'm finally starting to get into a sort of routine here, and that feels good. My Arabic is coming along okay, and I'm anxious to be able to understand more or the spoken word.
Friday, April 18, 2008
Tensions from Violence; Water; Hitting Students
In this post: tensions from the violence in Gaza and Nablus over the last few days; running out of water here; and the culture of hitting in and out of the classroom.
I planed on going to Jerusalem today to get away for a day or two, but I've just heard and read that Israel has blocked off all the checkpoints into the West Bank and Gaza to "celebrate" the Passover, so I'm not sure if I will go to Jerusalem. If I can get back into Bethlehem (as an international), then, I'll go; otherwise, I'll stay here.
Tensions here are higher because of the violence over the last few days in Gaza and Nablus (Nablus in the West Bank, and I visited it on my last trip here). As some of you may know, over 21 people were killed in Gaza in one day, on Wed. There have also been a few pin-point assassinations by the Israeli military against "militants" in Nablus. Any violence against Palestinians makes all Palestinians uneasy, and there is fear that things could escalate again. We really hear little of these almost daily occurrences here. And, even when we do here about them in the States, we get a very sanitized version. Here, the gruesomely mutilated bodies are broadcast on TV in graphic detail, and this serves to stoke the anger of Palestinians. I wonder, if we in the States saw these pictures, would we react any differently? Would we have similar anger and outrage? I don't believe the anger and hurt these Palestinians feel at seeing their friends, relatives, or acquaintances mutilated by a rocket, body parts strewn across the street, I don't believe this anger is wrong. I am angry too! Anger is an emotion like sadness or joy; it's only how we react to these emotions (act upon them) that can be right or wrong.
Two days ago, we ran out of cold water in our house. Apparently, even our reserve water containers on top the house are dry. Palestinians in camps keep those reserves for when Israel shuts the water off. It's common for them to run out of water during the summer, but this seems a little early to me to be running out of water. The most inconvenient thing so far is that I wasn't able to take a shower until today because we use cold water for showering in the house (and run the cold water through a small water heater). Anyway, I was able to find a place (outside the house) to shower today, but I just heard that most of the camp is now out of cold water.
I'm really starting to notice the violent culture that exists here. One can attribute this to the occupation or a number of other factors, but the fact of the violence here still remains. Specifically, what I'm referring to is how the children act and are treated. It reminds me of stories I've heard about how children were treated 100 years ago or so in the USA or other (now) developed countries. In class, the teachers don't intervene in the students behavior until it's out of control, and when teachers do intervene, it can be harsh, and include hitting. The hitting is not severe, but it is a form of intimidation.
The children also hit each other all the time. My favorite student, who continues to work with me on Arabic, started to walk me home the other day after classes. As we approached a corner where many rougher kids hang out and can give a little trouble, my student started to slow, then back up, and I noticed one of the rougher kids break away from the group and start chasing him. Thankfully, my student, who is much smaller, is fast and was not caught. I later found him, and he walked me home by an alternative route; however, as we got close to my house again, the bully snuck up on us and started to chase again. This time, though, I was ready for it and was able to impede his path to allow my friend to get away.
I had mixed feelings about my intervention, though, because I have to be careful not to choose sides too much. Later, I told the bully, who also comes to my classes, that I liked him too (although I wasn't sure until today if he understood what I was trying to say--today, he shared some of his lunch with me).
The adults response to the children fighting is--this is natural here. So, the adults usually don't intervene if the fighting is in the street.
We're still working to find a home stay for me. There still are some possibilities, but it is difficult for a strange, new man to find a home to stay in here. I will probably visit a home on Sun. that may be able to take me.
I planed on going to Jerusalem today to get away for a day or two, but I've just heard and read that Israel has blocked off all the checkpoints into the West Bank and Gaza to "celebrate" the Passover, so I'm not sure if I will go to Jerusalem. If I can get back into Bethlehem (as an international), then, I'll go; otherwise, I'll stay here.
Tensions here are higher because of the violence over the last few days in Gaza and Nablus (Nablus in the West Bank, and I visited it on my last trip here). As some of you may know, over 21 people were killed in Gaza in one day, on Wed. There have also been a few pin-point assassinations by the Israeli military against "militants" in Nablus. Any violence against Palestinians makes all Palestinians uneasy, and there is fear that things could escalate again. We really hear little of these almost daily occurrences here. And, even when we do here about them in the States, we get a very sanitized version. Here, the gruesomely mutilated bodies are broadcast on TV in graphic detail, and this serves to stoke the anger of Palestinians. I wonder, if we in the States saw these pictures, would we react any differently? Would we have similar anger and outrage? I don't believe the anger and hurt these Palestinians feel at seeing their friends, relatives, or acquaintances mutilated by a rocket, body parts strewn across the street, I don't believe this anger is wrong. I am angry too! Anger is an emotion like sadness or joy; it's only how we react to these emotions (act upon them) that can be right or wrong.
Two days ago, we ran out of cold water in our house. Apparently, even our reserve water containers on top the house are dry. Palestinians in camps keep those reserves for when Israel shuts the water off. It's common for them to run out of water during the summer, but this seems a little early to me to be running out of water. The most inconvenient thing so far is that I wasn't able to take a shower until today because we use cold water for showering in the house (and run the cold water through a small water heater). Anyway, I was able to find a place (outside the house) to shower today, but I just heard that most of the camp is now out of cold water.
I'm really starting to notice the violent culture that exists here. One can attribute this to the occupation or a number of other factors, but the fact of the violence here still remains. Specifically, what I'm referring to is how the children act and are treated. It reminds me of stories I've heard about how children were treated 100 years ago or so in the USA or other (now) developed countries. In class, the teachers don't intervene in the students behavior until it's out of control, and when teachers do intervene, it can be harsh, and include hitting. The hitting is not severe, but it is a form of intimidation.
The children also hit each other all the time. My favorite student, who continues to work with me on Arabic, started to walk me home the other day after classes. As we approached a corner where many rougher kids hang out and can give a little trouble, my student started to slow, then back up, and I noticed one of the rougher kids break away from the group and start chasing him. Thankfully, my student, who is much smaller, is fast and was not caught. I later found him, and he walked me home by an alternative route; however, as we got close to my house again, the bully snuck up on us and started to chase again. This time, though, I was ready for it and was able to impede his path to allow my friend to get away.
I had mixed feelings about my intervention, though, because I have to be careful not to choose sides too much. Later, I told the bully, who also comes to my classes, that I liked him too (although I wasn't sure until today if he understood what I was trying to say--today, he shared some of his lunch with me).
The adults response to the children fighting is--this is natural here. So, the adults usually don't intervene if the fighting is in the street.
We're still working to find a home stay for me. There still are some possibilities, but it is difficult for a strange, new man to find a home to stay in here. I will probably visit a home on Sun. that may be able to take me.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
A Scary Situation, a Cute Kid, and Pics
I forgot to mention a few things in my last post. Several nights ago, I walked Janelle to her house around 10 pm, and after she walked down the steps to her home, I turned to leave and was greeted by 4-5 Pal. men, around 20 yrs. old. They seemed friendly and we exchanged greetings; then, they invited me to get in their car w/ them. I'm almost so accostomed to accepting Pal. hospitality that I almost said "yes;" then, I realized I didn't recognize any of the guys, didn't know what they were up to, and I really wanted to go home. However, when I turned them down, they said, "No, you ARE coming w/ us." I said, "No, I'm not."
Two of the guys then grabbed my arms and started pulling/dragging me toward the back of the vehicle; another guy opened the hatch-back sort of trunk where they wanted me to go. All the time, they had a kind of smirk on their face that made me wonder how serious this was; but, unwilling to take lots of chances here, I grabbed onto a rough wall and kept them from dragging me into the car.
They were forcefully pulling on my arms, but if they had really wanted to over-power me, it wouldn't have been too difficult with 4-5 of them. But, I also knew we were in a visible area of the camp and just outside Janelle's house, so I was tempted several times to yell for help. I was just on the verge of yelling a few times, but not sure if the situation warranted that.
After about 3-4 minutes of arguing w/ the guys (in a somewhat friendly manner), we had a break-through. I kept trying to think of things during our argument to say in Arabic that would let them know I was more than just a short-term tourist. I think I was able to get that point across eventually, but about that time, one of the teenagers I recognized from the camp showed up and addressed them. Then, he said to me, "They're just joking. They were testing you. You're welcome here, very welcome. They've had too much to drink."
I was really surprised about the "drinking" part, as I assume it meant alcohol. While it is forbidden in Islam to drink alcohol, it happens sometimes, but this is a conservative camp and a little less likely to happen. However, I suspicion these guys weren't from the camp, but outsiders who maybe knew a place in the camp where they could get some alcohol.
The situation was frightening and I talked with Janelle's host family for some time before they walked me home that evening. However, I really do feel safer in the camp than some other places, as I am now known and liked in the camp. Overall, I've felt very safe, actually, and quite welcome here.
Today, one of the students (about 10 yrs old) helped me study my Arabic flash cards. It was sooo cute: he sat right next to me, w/ his hand on my leg. He would say the word in Arabic so I could hear it, then I would turn the card over and say the English word. I think this is a mutually beneficial set up, and I think this student wants to be my friend and work w/ me. He's a little shy and I'm afraid I already have a favorite here (which I have mixed feelings about).
I'm including some pics below for your enjoyment.
My room at the old (about to be demolished) Al-Rowwad volunteer center.
Our living room in the Volunteer house. This actually looks nice, but the house is quite run down, with mold growing everywhere.
The entrance to the house. Notice the murals that depict the villages that were destroyed when the refugees had to flee their homes.
Another view of the entrance to the house.
The road I walk to go to the center and back home. It's one of the main strips through the camp.
Another main strip through the Camp. Notice the Mosque in the background (the Camp's).
Outside of the Center.
Inside of the New Center. The open floor is where students practice theatre and dance. I work upstairs (more pics of that to come later)
The Orphanage in Hebron that is under threat of being shut down. All the buildings in the pic are part of the orphanage. There are over 1400 students that will be made homeless again if the orphanage is made to close.
Kids at the orphanage.
Playground at the orphanage.
Students at the orphanage crowd intl's to get a pic and say "hi!"
Two of the guys then grabbed my arms and started pulling/dragging me toward the back of the vehicle; another guy opened the hatch-back sort of trunk where they wanted me to go. All the time, they had a kind of smirk on their face that made me wonder how serious this was; but, unwilling to take lots of chances here, I grabbed onto a rough wall and kept them from dragging me into the car.
They were forcefully pulling on my arms, but if they had really wanted to over-power me, it wouldn't have been too difficult with 4-5 of them. But, I also knew we were in a visible area of the camp and just outside Janelle's house, so I was tempted several times to yell for help. I was just on the verge of yelling a few times, but not sure if the situation warranted that.
After about 3-4 minutes of arguing w/ the guys (in a somewhat friendly manner), we had a break-through. I kept trying to think of things during our argument to say in Arabic that would let them know I was more than just a short-term tourist. I think I was able to get that point across eventually, but about that time, one of the teenagers I recognized from the camp showed up and addressed them. Then, he said to me, "They're just joking. They were testing you. You're welcome here, very welcome. They've had too much to drink."
I was really surprised about the "drinking" part, as I assume it meant alcohol. While it is forbidden in Islam to drink alcohol, it happens sometimes, but this is a conservative camp and a little less likely to happen. However, I suspicion these guys weren't from the camp, but outsiders who maybe knew a place in the camp where they could get some alcohol.
The situation was frightening and I talked with Janelle's host family for some time before they walked me home that evening. However, I really do feel safer in the camp than some other places, as I am now known and liked in the camp. Overall, I've felt very safe, actually, and quite welcome here.
Today, one of the students (about 10 yrs old) helped me study my Arabic flash cards. It was sooo cute: he sat right next to me, w/ his hand on my leg. He would say the word in Arabic so I could hear it, then I would turn the card over and say the English word. I think this is a mutually beneficial set up, and I think this student wants to be my friend and work w/ me. He's a little shy and I'm afraid I already have a favorite here (which I have mixed feelings about).
I'm including some pics below for your enjoyment.
My room at the old (about to be demolished) Al-Rowwad volunteer center.
Our living room in the Volunteer house. This actually looks nice, but the house is quite run down, with mold growing everywhere.
The entrance to the house. Notice the murals that depict the villages that were destroyed when the refugees had to flee their homes.
Another view of the entrance to the house.
The road I walk to go to the center and back home. It's one of the main strips through the camp.
Another main strip through the Camp. Notice the Mosque in the background (the Camp's).
Outside of the Center.
Inside of the New Center. The open floor is where students practice theatre and dance. I work upstairs (more pics of that to come later)
The Orphanage in Hebron that is under threat of being shut down. All the buildings in the pic are part of the orphanage. There are over 1400 students that will be made homeless again if the orphanage is made to close.
Kids at the orphanage.
Playground at the orphanage.
Students at the orphanage crowd intl's to get a pic and say "hi!"
Monday, April 14, 2008
Sleeping in Hebron
In this issue: weekend touring; sleeping at orphanage in Hebron; new class at the camp?; contacting me.
I decided not to go to Jerusalem this weekend after all, as I found ways to relax in/around the camp. Got some much needed sleep on Sat. morning, then met up with some friends to visit a park nearby.
On Sun., I played tour guide for a few people who wanted to see Beth., the camp, and surrounding areas. I enjoyed showing them around, but we were tight on time. I ended up going to Hebron Sun. night as the crisis there to shut down the orphanage accelerated.
Christian Peacemaker Teams is the group organizing for intl's to sleep at the orphanage because the Israeli military is trying to shut the orphanage down. It was a little odd for me to be back at the CPT apartment in Hebron, but I enjoyed getting information from CPTers on the orphanage situation. We're sleeping at the orphanage to act as a little deturrent to a orphanage closure, but mostly to document and bear witness to if/when it happens. I probably won't be able to go back to the orphanage in the near future, though.
CPT explained that on the surface, the Israeli military justifies shutting down the orphanage (and kindergarten) because they say the orphanage is funneling money to Hamas. Hamas enjoyed strong support in Hebron before it took over Gaza, but since then, hardly any one will espouse strong support for Hamas for fear of being arrested by the Fateh gov.'t in the West Bank. The orphanage has argued that its financial books are completely open to the public, and all their money is accounted for. Without giving any evidence, the military is still insisting on shutting down the orphanage.
The orphanage is prestigious and has a very high rate of students is sends on to Univ., etc. All of the administrators are in jail right now, due to this crisis. CPT explained that under the surface, there may be other reasons the military wants to shut down the orphanage. The Israeli military has a history of shutting down schools in Hebron since the Second Intifada, when it closed schools for over a year and enforced a curfew when people couldn't leave their houses except for a few hours a week. This orphanage in particular threatens parts of the occupation because of its commitment to academic excellence and training tomorrow's leaders.
Also, the orphanage is funded by Islamic Charity, which is a well respected intl. group that partners w/ such groups as Catholic Community Services. It could be that the military feels threatened by outside groups funding social services here, and it certainly is true that Hamas came to power on the strength of their social service programs. Shutting down social services could hurt Hamas's popularity (so goes the argument).
Anyway, we slept at the orphanage without incident. The children are still sleeping there and are quite scared. There were hundreds of children there, and the facility was really, really clean and nice. I can't believe that the place could be shut down in a few days. I felt so sad to see the kids faces and think that they may, again, not have a place to stay. The teachers at the orphanage were very hospitable and enjoyed talking w/ me in Arabic. I had the opportunity to do a little translation, which was exciting, but I missed a lot of words.
We arrived back in Bethlehem this morning and I worked most of the day at the center. Some teachers at the center came to me today and asked me to help teach a class on English conversation, as I'm a native speaker. I'm excited at the possibility of participating in such a class, as I'm feeling a little bored right now w/ what I'm doing.
I finally got my camera back! I will post some pics in the next few days. I feel more empowered and inquisitive when I have my camera--hah, hah!
I'll probably get an additional mobile phone in the next few days, as the one I have doesn't get good service where live. Let me know if you need the number. Also, I'm trying to be available on Skype from 7-8 a.m. EST most days. Let me know if I need to schedule another time to talk.
I decided not to go to Jerusalem this weekend after all, as I found ways to relax in/around the camp. Got some much needed sleep on Sat. morning, then met up with some friends to visit a park nearby.
On Sun., I played tour guide for a few people who wanted to see Beth., the camp, and surrounding areas. I enjoyed showing them around, but we were tight on time. I ended up going to Hebron Sun. night as the crisis there to shut down the orphanage accelerated.
Christian Peacemaker Teams is the group organizing for intl's to sleep at the orphanage because the Israeli military is trying to shut the orphanage down. It was a little odd for me to be back at the CPT apartment in Hebron, but I enjoyed getting information from CPTers on the orphanage situation. We're sleeping at the orphanage to act as a little deturrent to a orphanage closure, but mostly to document and bear witness to if/when it happens. I probably won't be able to go back to the orphanage in the near future, though.
CPT explained that on the surface, the Israeli military justifies shutting down the orphanage (and kindergarten) because they say the orphanage is funneling money to Hamas. Hamas enjoyed strong support in Hebron before it took over Gaza, but since then, hardly any one will espouse strong support for Hamas for fear of being arrested by the Fateh gov.'t in the West Bank. The orphanage has argued that its financial books are completely open to the public, and all their money is accounted for. Without giving any evidence, the military is still insisting on shutting down the orphanage.
The orphanage is prestigious and has a very high rate of students is sends on to Univ., etc. All of the administrators are in jail right now, due to this crisis. CPT explained that under the surface, there may be other reasons the military wants to shut down the orphanage. The Israeli military has a history of shutting down schools in Hebron since the Second Intifada, when it closed schools for over a year and enforced a curfew when people couldn't leave their houses except for a few hours a week. This orphanage in particular threatens parts of the occupation because of its commitment to academic excellence and training tomorrow's leaders.
Also, the orphanage is funded by Islamic Charity, which is a well respected intl. group that partners w/ such groups as Catholic Community Services. It could be that the military feels threatened by outside groups funding social services here, and it certainly is true that Hamas came to power on the strength of their social service programs. Shutting down social services could hurt Hamas's popularity (so goes the argument).
Anyway, we slept at the orphanage without incident. The children are still sleeping there and are quite scared. There were hundreds of children there, and the facility was really, really clean and nice. I can't believe that the place could be shut down in a few days. I felt so sad to see the kids faces and think that they may, again, not have a place to stay. The teachers at the orphanage were very hospitable and enjoyed talking w/ me in Arabic. I had the opportunity to do a little translation, which was exciting, but I missed a lot of words.
We arrived back in Bethlehem this morning and I worked most of the day at the center. Some teachers at the center came to me today and asked me to help teach a class on English conversation, as I'm a native speaker. I'm excited at the possibility of participating in such a class, as I'm feeling a little bored right now w/ what I'm doing.
I finally got my camera back! I will post some pics in the next few days. I feel more empowered and inquisitive when I have my camera--hah, hah!
I'll probably get an additional mobile phone in the next few days, as the one I have doesn't get good service where live. Let me know if you need the number. Also, I'm trying to be available on Skype from 7-8 a.m. EST most days. Let me know if I need to schedule another time to talk.
Friday, April 11, 2008
Finding Peace in the Camp
In this post: Sleeping at Hebron to prevent demolishins; finding quiet in the camp; communicating with locals; my Arabic name; and more . . .
My weekends are going to be Fri. and Sat. because of the schedule here in the camp. I'm trying to relax a little today after a somewhat stressful week of trying to get settled. Yesterday, my cell charger stopped working, and it was quite difficult to find a replacement; I'm still not sure the one I bought will work, but we'll see.
Fri. evening, volunteers here in the camp were notified that the Israeli military (IOF) was going to proceed with demolishing an elementary school complex in Hebron Fri. night (see a previous blog I wrote about this develping crisis or CPT's latest update on the situation: http://cpt.org/node/6993). A group of us prepared to go to Hebron to sleep at the school to keep it from being demolished; however, we later received a call saying the demolishin had been called off, so we didn't go to Hebron. We may go later when the threat rises again.
Life here in the camp can be hard. It's difficult to find alone or quiet time. There's always the dull roar of children playing, things banging, and construction going on. Much of this stems from so many people living in such a small space. I love the Palestinian hospitality and energy, but I get tired after a while. I think it will be important for me to do good self care and say "no" when I need to. Both the local Palestinians and the internationals love to talk, visit, throw parties, etc., and while I enjoy these events, it's important for me not to wear myself out.
I'm feeling a little frustrated with my ability to communicate with people. I want to learn faster and I think I should be able to understand people better than I do. Locals have been quite impressed with my ability to read and write in Arabic, and they don't understand how I can be "literate" without understanding the language (some locals here are illiterate). Several times, locals have enjoyed making me read or giving me words to spell. I guess it's unusual for a foreigner to be able to read-write Arabic, but I'm still feeling frustrated that I can't speak or understand the language better. Understanding when people speak to me is where I'm weakest right now.
There is a lettuce festival going on in a village nearby this afternoon, and I may spend a few hours there. Afterward, I'll probably travel to Jerusalem and spend the night there, just to get away from the camp for a day.
Every time I walk in the camp, people call out to me in my Arabic-Muslim name: Yahyeh. This word refers to the Quranic account of John the Baptist, and a previous Arabic teacher had suggested this name to me, which has worked well for me here--people remember my name better because they're used to hearing it, and they enjoying calling a foreigner by a common, Muslim name. I usually stop and chat with shop owners, or at least try to talk with them. The children enjoy calling out my name too, especially since I'm the only male volunteer in the camp. "Yahyeh" also refers to a Palestinian leader in Gaza who resisted the Israeli military (probably violently), and I think he was killed. He's somewhat of a local hero here, so make that association with me as well--I haven't decided whether that's good or bad.
I'm thoroughly enjoying my time here, and I'm looking forward to more interactions with locals and attending more events. I'm just a little tired right now and ready to settle into some form of a schedule.
My weekends are going to be Fri. and Sat. because of the schedule here in the camp. I'm trying to relax a little today after a somewhat stressful week of trying to get settled. Yesterday, my cell charger stopped working, and it was quite difficult to find a replacement; I'm still not sure the one I bought will work, but we'll see.
Fri. evening, volunteers here in the camp were notified that the Israeli military (IOF) was going to proceed with demolishing an elementary school complex in Hebron Fri. night (see a previous blog I wrote about this develping crisis or CPT's latest update on the situation: http://cpt.org/node/6993). A group of us prepared to go to Hebron to sleep at the school to keep it from being demolished; however, we later received a call saying the demolishin had been called off, so we didn't go to Hebron. We may go later when the threat rises again.
Life here in the camp can be hard. It's difficult to find alone or quiet time. There's always the dull roar of children playing, things banging, and construction going on. Much of this stems from so many people living in such a small space. I love the Palestinian hospitality and energy, but I get tired after a while. I think it will be important for me to do good self care and say "no" when I need to. Both the local Palestinians and the internationals love to talk, visit, throw parties, etc., and while I enjoy these events, it's important for me not to wear myself out.
I'm feeling a little frustrated with my ability to communicate with people. I want to learn faster and I think I should be able to understand people better than I do. Locals have been quite impressed with my ability to read and write in Arabic, and they don't understand how I can be "literate" without understanding the language (some locals here are illiterate). Several times, locals have enjoyed making me read or giving me words to spell. I guess it's unusual for a foreigner to be able to read-write Arabic, but I'm still feeling frustrated that I can't speak or understand the language better. Understanding when people speak to me is where I'm weakest right now.
There is a lettuce festival going on in a village nearby this afternoon, and I may spend a few hours there. Afterward, I'll probably travel to Jerusalem and spend the night there, just to get away from the camp for a day.
Every time I walk in the camp, people call out to me in my Arabic-Muslim name: Yahyeh. This word refers to the Quranic account of John the Baptist, and a previous Arabic teacher had suggested this name to me, which has worked well for me here--people remember my name better because they're used to hearing it, and they enjoying calling a foreigner by a common, Muslim name. I usually stop and chat with shop owners, or at least try to talk with them. The children enjoy calling out my name too, especially since I'm the only male volunteer in the camp. "Yahyeh" also refers to a Palestinian leader in Gaza who resisted the Israeli military (probably violently), and I think he was killed. He's somewhat of a local hero here, so make that association with me as well--I haven't decided whether that's good or bad.
I'm thoroughly enjoying my time here, and I'm looking forward to more interactions with locals and attending more events. I'm just a little tired right now and ready to settle into some form of a schedule.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
break-throughs
Today I was able to connect more with some of the kids in classes. The teacher had asked me to reformat a computer next to where some students were working, and the students saw me studying my Arabic flash cards, and they couldn't resist coaching me on pronunciation, which I gladly accepted. I'm looking forward to many more impromptu lessons from the kids.
Also, I connected with the family of friends from Seattle, and it sounds like they may have found a family in the camp for me to live with. Not everything is finalized, but I may have the opportunity to live with an older couple who has two grown sons living at home. This set up is more acceptable to the culture here--having a strange man live in a house with fewer females (i.e., or an older one). I'm excited about the possibility of being able to speak more Arabic.
I'm still fighting to find quiet time to study and do a few upkeep things, but that will be easier once I obtain a more set schedule. I've been able to get some quiet time for mediation and reflection in the early morning, and I cherish that time.
If any of you want to communicate with me, I use skype (free calls between computers)--email me if you can't find me on Skype or need my username. I'm usually online in the early morning (7 am) or late evening (after 10:30 pm) PST. Also, I understand my cell plan does not charge for incoming calls, so once I confirm that, you can probably call my cell if you need. I recommend using One Suite for international calls (www.onesuite.com)--it costs $.08 per minute to call my phone from the US using One Suite calling card. Please email me if you need my mobile number.
Also, I connected with the family of friends from Seattle, and it sounds like they may have found a family in the camp for me to live with. Not everything is finalized, but I may have the opportunity to live with an older couple who has two grown sons living at home. This set up is more acceptable to the culture here--having a strange man live in a house with fewer females (i.e., or an older one). I'm excited about the possibility of being able to speak more Arabic.
I'm still fighting to find quiet time to study and do a few upkeep things, but that will be easier once I obtain a more set schedule. I've been able to get some quiet time for mediation and reflection in the early morning, and I cherish that time.
If any of you want to communicate with me, I use skype (free calls between computers)--email me if you can't find me on Skype or need my username. I'm usually online in the early morning (7 am) or late evening (after 10:30 pm) PST. Also, I understand my cell plan does not charge for incoming calls, so once I confirm that, you can probably call my cell if you need. I recommend using One Suite for international calls (www.onesuite.com)--it costs $.08 per minute to call my phone from the US using One Suite calling card. Please email me if you need my mobile number.
Monday, April 7, 2008
Day 1
I arrived at Al-Rowwad cultural center this morning and began work with the computer skills teacher. He doesn't speak a lot of English, so it's a good chance for me to practice Arabic. He's actually leaving Al-Rowwad on Thurs. because he has another job, and at first, I understood from him that I was to take over teaching all his classes, and that really stressed me out because I don't have the language or other skills to do what he's doing. However, after I clarified with someone else, I found out there's another teacher coming, and I am to tutor alongside the new teacher. However, there may be a week or two where I'm on my own . . . we'll see.
The children at Al-Rowwad come here when they're not in class. The have classes a half day, 6 days a week, and many kids come to the center on the rest of their half day to receive more instruction, art classes, dance classes, etc.
The education aspect of Al-Rowwad (where I'll primarily be working, it seems) ends around 2 pm, and today, I was invited to a teachers home to work on Arabic. She introduced me to her family and husband, and we talked for a long time over tea and coffee. They were VERY hospitable and showed me around their camp from the roof of their house. They offered to help me in Arabic if I help them with English, which I'm excited about. The teacher teaches some Englishes classes at the center, but her husband speaks very little English.
I lost my camera today, which really stressed me out until I found that I left it in Jerusalem and friends had found it. I'll post some pics from the camp as soon as I get my camera back.
Someone asked me why some of the children here have anger toward all internationals, even the ones who are here to help them. This is a complex question, and not one I can fully answer in one blog post, but I'll give a few reasons. When children here first see internationals, they don't know if the intl's are here to help. However, there is growing frustration here with all intl's because the Palestinian people have been suffering with very little change so long, that they don't see the point or the help that the intl's are giving. So far, intl's have not changed their situation, so there's growing resentment toward them.
Also, some of the anger boils down to just plain teenage rebellion against adults and authority. But, not all the children harass the intl's, and many of them love the intl's. But, there's something that happens with "Group-think" when a group of kids starts harassing intl's. The children here suffer from much PTSD, except their stress is not Post--it's still going on. People living under such conditions, especially children, can do very strange things.
However, once you develop some relationships and the kids come to trust you, a lot of the anger toward you (as a specific intl) calms down. There still may be some random behavior problems, but not as much as before. So . . . as like many places, it all boils down to relationships.
I'm looking forward to building some good relationships here, and I think the longer I'm here, the more rapport I'll have with everyone.
The children at Al-Rowwad come here when they're not in class. The have classes a half day, 6 days a week, and many kids come to the center on the rest of their half day to receive more instruction, art classes, dance classes, etc.
The education aspect of Al-Rowwad (where I'll primarily be working, it seems) ends around 2 pm, and today, I was invited to a teachers home to work on Arabic. She introduced me to her family and husband, and we talked for a long time over tea and coffee. They were VERY hospitable and showed me around their camp from the roof of their house. They offered to help me in Arabic if I help them with English, which I'm excited about. The teacher teaches some Englishes classes at the center, but her husband speaks very little English.
I lost my camera today, which really stressed me out until I found that I left it in Jerusalem and friends had found it. I'll post some pics from the camp as soon as I get my camera back.
Someone asked me why some of the children here have anger toward all internationals, even the ones who are here to help them. This is a complex question, and not one I can fully answer in one blog post, but I'll give a few reasons. When children here first see internationals, they don't know if the intl's are here to help. However, there is growing frustration here with all intl's because the Palestinian people have been suffering with very little change so long, that they don't see the point or the help that the intl's are giving. So far, intl's have not changed their situation, so there's growing resentment toward them.
Also, some of the anger boils down to just plain teenage rebellion against adults and authority. But, not all the children harass the intl's, and many of them love the intl's. But, there's something that happens with "Group-think" when a group of kids starts harassing intl's. The children here suffer from much PTSD, except their stress is not Post--it's still going on. People living under such conditions, especially children, can do very strange things.
However, once you develop some relationships and the kids come to trust you, a lot of the anger toward you (as a specific intl) calms down. There still may be some random behavior problems, but not as much as before. So . . . as like many places, it all boils down to relationships.
I'm looking forward to building some good relationships here, and I think the longer I'm here, the more rapport I'll have with everyone.
Sunday, April 6, 2008
Arrival in Aida
I traveled with my friend Janelle today from Jerusalem to Bethlehem and Aida refugee camp (where I'll be working and living). The place where I'm going to be living is actually in better shape than I expected (I'm living in the guest house--the old cultural center here). I'm hoping to eventually live with a family or some Palestinian students, though.
One other friend from Jerusalem traveled with Janelle and me to Aida camp, and I showed her around the camp a little. Some kids (8-12 yrs old) hissed at us and shot spit wads at us, but they settled down a little once I talked and joked with them. But, then leaving the camp, someone dumped some water or liquid from a window onto me.
Everyone lives in such cramped conditions in the camp, and the youth, especially, feel resentment against most, if not all, internationals. It helps once you develop a relationship with them.
I'm tired this evening and going to sleep early. I'll start work tomorrow morning at Al-Rowwad Cultural Center (in the camp), and probably be working in the education department. However, I may also take some time tomorrow to travel to Hebron, as many internationals are traveling there tomorrow to stand in solidarity with the Palestinians there who may lose social services in the area (see the last blog post for more info and how to take action on this).
Saturday, April 5, 2008
Friday, April 4, 2008
Meetings @ Ecce Homo
The very first person I talked to after arriving in Jerusalem was a young man walking around Ecce Homo (where I'm staying) with his laptop, trying to find a wireless i-net signal. We struck up a conversation and quickly discovered we had a lot in common: he and his family who are here with him are from Bainbridge Island (near Seattle) and his mother leads delegations each year to this area.
When I asked what kind of delegations, he described them to me, and I said, "Oh, like the Fellowship on Reconciliation delegations," and he said, "Yeah, it's like that, but it's called the Compassionate Listening Project."
Right after that, his Mom walked up, and I had the chance to talk with her--she's actually the director of Compassionate Listening, which I'm very familiar with and have been somewhat loosely involved with.
The mother and I have actually spoken on the phone before, and she remembered me. Anyway, it was amazing to run into such people very first thing after I arrived here. I've had a relaxing day today and will continue resting until Sun., when I go to Bethlehem.
I also ran into another person from the states who's a recent convert to Islam, and I think she's going to help me gain access to the inside of Dome of the Rock (usually, you have to be Muslim to enter now).
It's late afternoon here, and the city is slow because of the Muslim holy day (Fri.) and preparation for Shabbat (Jewish holy day).
When I asked what kind of delegations, he described them to me, and I said, "Oh, like the Fellowship on Reconciliation delegations," and he said, "Yeah, it's like that, but it's called the Compassionate Listening Project."
Right after that, his Mom walked up, and I had the chance to talk with her--she's actually the director of Compassionate Listening, which I'm very familiar with and have been somewhat loosely involved with.
The mother and I have actually spoken on the phone before, and she remembered me. Anyway, it was amazing to run into such people very first thing after I arrived here. I've had a relaxing day today and will continue resting until Sun., when I go to Bethlehem.
I also ran into another person from the states who's a recent convert to Islam, and I think she's going to help me gain access to the inside of Dome of the Rock (usually, you have to be Muslim to enter now).
It's late afternoon here, and the city is slow because of the Muslim holy day (Fri.) and preparation for Shabbat (Jewish holy day).
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Arrived
I arrived in Jerusalem all safe and sound. There were very few hitches in the journey and I received no hassle getting into Israel.
I'm enjoying a clear sunny morning on top a balcony in Jerusalem, looking down onto the Dome of the Rock.
I'll stay here in Jerusalem until Sun. afternoon, when I will travel to Bethlehem.
I'm feeling very thankful for the ease of the journey thus far.
Peace&Love
I'm enjoying a clear sunny morning on top a balcony in Jerusalem, looking down onto the Dome of the Rock.
I'll stay here in Jerusalem until Sun. afternoon, when I will travel to Bethlehem.
I'm feeling very thankful for the ease of the journey thus far.
Peace&Love
Heathrow
Arrived safely to London and am waiting for a connecting flight. So far, everything has been extremely smooth and easy!
It took me less than 30 min. last night to get from the airport curb to my gate (through all the security checks), and it took me about the same amount of time at the security checks in London today. I am very thankful for the unusual ease of traveling so far.
Peace&Love
Treye
It took me less than 30 min. last night to get from the airport curb to my gate (through all the security checks), and it took me about the same amount of time at the security checks in London today. I am very thankful for the unusual ease of traveling so far.
Peace&Love
Treye