What I've Learned: The LONG Version

Security: I had a much easier time with security than some of my other friends. I’m not sure why, although I have to admit I was a bit shameless with my flirting. Actually, having gone through the security system with an ‘average’ experience, I can appreciate how Ben Gurion Airport is the most secure airport in the world.  Israel is admitably in quite a vulnerable position. There is worldwide anger towards the government’s policies and, with the tendency of some individuals to inappropriately respond to anger with violence, I can appreciate their thoroughness in screening passengers and their belongings.

Perspective: Daily, with conversations and more reflection, I am developing my perspective and understanding of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. A wise friend reminded me before I left that the more you seek to understand all the perspectives of a conflict, the more questions you have. That is exactly what has happened. My whole experience in Palestine has richly blessed me with an intimate knowledge of the Palestinian plight that is not readily available in our Western media. I have a deeper understanding of the surmounting hardship, oppression and injustice Palestinians face on a daily basis. Yet, I also now see the internal responsibilities and transformations the Palestinians must take within their own society if they want change. I’ve also begun to figure out my feelings about Israel. Honestly, I’ve been very confused because my passions for justice for Palestine seemed as if it should place me at odds with their occupying power. Yet, I love Israel. I find the way religion plays itself out within the Israeli state fascinating and intriguing. Most of the Israelis I met were very engaging and generous. I have begun to learn that a government’s actions don’t necessarily reflect the full will of the people. As an American, I can relate.

Extremists: The Israeli government is enacting and aggressively pursuing some unacceptable policies—especially when it comes to the illegal settlements built throughout the West Bank—that even the most zealous Israelis I talked with (except, of course, the settlers) condemned. Frequently I’ve been asked what I think should happen in Israel/Palestine. My honest belief is that before anything can change the settlements need to be dismantled. It will be difficult because of the zealous and fanatical nature of the settlers, but it needs to happen. I find myself frequently discussing how it feels like it is the actions of a few radical individuals on both sides that keep this conflict going. Personally, as I watched the settlers encroach on Beit Sahour and knowing that international attention or aid was not going to come halt their illegal actions (condemned even by the United States), I felt the power of hopelessness and felt the temptation to react with violence. Violence only begets more violence but unfortunately, violence is a tempting and immediate way to react. When Palestinians respond to hopeless injustice with violence the response they get is an even greater violent retaliation, which then causes more hopelessness, and the cycle just continues and escalates. Tragically, it is the mass population who bears the consequences of this violence. Kassam rockets fired out of Gaza do not hit the government policy makers, they hit civilians. The Separation Wall does not stop those determined to inflict harm, it just stops the average Palestinian from accessing their land and only source of income. I’m thrown to the ground when I try to fathom the proper response and have developed a deep compassion and sympathy for both Israeli and Palestinian leaders. It’s a mess that requires an innovative and creative solution.

Personally: This summer I learned a lot about my responsibility to society and to seek social justice. Christ’s teaching has taken a whole new meaning to me as I understand his teachings and guidance to the Jewish people under Roman occupation. The most frequent command in the New Testament is to love. I’m starting to understand that loving my neighbor requires me to fight for their justice and equality no matter their label. I’ve been frightened realizing the sacrifice that may require, but I feel like I am now living under an obligation. I find myself wishing I could just be happy and satisfied with a life of seeking comfort and luxury but I don’t believe that is what we are called to seek. Many people have commented to me that they don’t think working for peace in the Middle East is worthwhile because they believe that Biblically they are told it will always be in conflict until Christ or the Messiah returns. I believe God does not desire his children to live in conflict and violence. He calls us to pursue love and understanding. Although it may not ever be perfectly realized in the human realm I believe it is our obligation to one another to lift up and support those who need it. We must not push away our enemies; we must seek to understand their perspectives and their concerns.

“To those who are given much, much is required”: I was blessed with an unbelievable opportunity this summer. I believe I have been privileged with the unique opportunity to see and witness what most of the world hasn’t. I marvel at the diversity of perspectives and individuals I was blessed with opportunities to interact with and believe I have gained a valuable well-rounded experience. Because of that, I believe I am now morally required to discuss and to learn more. I am obligated to continue to seek to understand all of the layers and perspectives of this conflict. Honestly, that obligation makes me excited. This is my passion: to understand.

In conclusion: I only hope my true heart for this issue has come through. I’ve been living the story of the Palestinians this summer and have tried to communicate the reality of their suffering. At the same time, I’ve been learning about the ‘other story’ as well and I hope I have been able to adequately communicate their concerns, fears and motivations. As much as I wish the situation were black and white, it is a mosaic of gray. 

By JW - PSE 2008

Aug. 11, 2008