07.03.2011

Due to the aforementioned problems we were unable to attend the school today and the problem car was, hopefully, getting its correct papers. This meant we spent most of today at the meeting house in Jiftlik.

It was all systems go as we prepared for the arrival of an American V.I.P. This important visit was for him to hear, first hand, how strongly the Palestinians felt regarding certain issues involving American attitudes re:- settlements. The meeting had an international flavor, there being, French, Italian, and Scottish present, who for the best part, listened intently The Palestinians, who did not number enough to constitute a “riot”* spoke passionately and eloquently pleading their case.

It was an honor for us to be present and we learned a great deal listening to those very articulate men representing their various communities. This informal meeting ended after a few hours with hopes raised.

On leaving Jiftlik we headed to a garden center where a family is growing a variety of trees, fruit and vegetables. This family was encourage by the JVS who supplied man power to get the business off the ground. We as usual were treated to a tour of the green houses where we came out laden with cucumbers and tomatoes. Meanwhile another member of the team received an enormous bag of delicious juicy oranges. The family tends to their nursery daily, but the wife attends 2-3 times per week traveling from Nablus.

The night ended with a large glass of freshly squeezed oranges … vitamin C at its best.

*rumour has it that someone once stated that anymore than 10 Palestinians gathered together constitute a riot.

 

 08.03.2011

Today started with the sad news that one of the volunteers had lost his grandmother during the night. We were then privy to the amazing compassion that was shown to this family by almost the entire community. The family we were staying with hosted the closest male members who were given a typical meal served on these occasions. It seemed to also be a time for reflection. Meanwhile the female members remained at home and were visited by other female friends and neighbours bearing food. The support for this family will continue for sometime and we feel honoured and humbled to have been part of it. The remainder of the day we spent quietly away from the grieving family.