remembering the stories

Well, it’s been two weeks since arriving back in San Diego – hard to believe how fast time flies! It’s been wonderful to be back and not be in school :) I’ve been making the most of this new free time, catching up with friends, reading (whatever I want!), and enjoying San Diego. It’s been so sweet to be able to share stories of my time in Israel/Palestine with friends, family, co-workers, and even some new acquaintances. I’m humbled to be so blessed to have gotten to experience first-hand the stories I share with others.

Prayers for peace.
Wailing Wall - Jerusalem

As I continue to process through the things I heard, saw, and felt while in the Holy Land, I am struck by a strong sense of hope. Despite the deep-rooted pain and generation-old arguments on both sides, many of the everyday peacemakers with whom we met had a hope that I could not understand. How, in the midst of a conflict the likes of which most people have never experienced, can there possibly be any hope? Sure, there are daily frustrations that may chip away at the confidence they have for change – this is not exactly a quick-fix issue at hand. But the overarching themes throughout the conversations were peace and love, two very hopeful outcomes for the conflict.

Rock art at Tent of Nations:

"Peace, Justice and conservation of the creation"

"Peace and justice for all mankind"

"Never stop fighting for a better world"

Most individuals that we met with (from both Israel and Palestine) have a genuine desire to know their neighbors, engage in conversation with them, listen to what they have to say, that they might actually understand them. I was taken aback by the patience everyone has, knowing that a peaceful resolution is one that can take years, decades, even generations.

It makes me think about how impatient I am about the little things in my life. What an experience to help put things in perspective! As I continue to share the stories of these everyday peacemakers, I hope and pray that the stories impact people in such a way that causes a shift in their way of approaching conflict in their own lives.

One of the most impactful quotes from this trip came from the owner of Taybeh Brewery (the only brewery in the West Bank).

“Love not just your neighbor, but love also your enemy.”

Much easier said than done. But I do believe that love is the answer.

♥ mk