We are in the field, in one of the more remote villages, but the rumors that spread in the media quickly reached this point - young people entered one of the villages, threw stones, smashed windows of houses and vehicles, a child was hit in the head by a stray stone, the army is already there, separating the hawks. A week later we arrived at that same village. We got out of the car four and met the violence that happened here and is visible in the shattered glass, but also on the faces of the men and the women.
A week later we are two - Eyal and I, joining the shepherd in the pasture , who tells us about his worldview and the complex relationship with his neighbors. He is speaking in Hebrew, which makes my understanding easier, and I hear that the road to a connection of reconciliation and understanding is still a long way off.
A week later, when the ripples of what is happening in the area still accompany us, we start the day with the rabbi. I read some of his books, but the inspiration I received in the short conversation he had with us accompanied me all day - the deep, attentive look at the difficult things that happen, out of a tolerant perception and a broad human love. From his words I took the insight that the road to peace is still long but one must walk on in and towards it.
Every Thursday, in a van that also reaches remote places in the heart of southern Hebron, he comes out laden with the equipment needed by some of those living in the area (equipment provided by those who want to give something): clothing, housewares, sometimes groceries, toys. He comes to families, chats, and sometimes sits quietly, attentive. I found myself on one of the visits - while Eyal talked to the men about the events and politics, talking to the women who called me aside, about things that interested them - relationships between men and women, different relationships, the status of women and the freedom they have or do not have.
I am sometimes asked - and if I also want to join, is it possible? Of course. This is an invitation to join. But maybe it's good to know that this is not a riding trip to the desert. While the scenery is breathtaking, and there are moments of tranquility and space in the place, it is an invitation to join a journey into the beating heart of the people of this desert. With an open heart and a genuine desire to hear. Without a desire to "do" but simply "to be". And meet what is to come. No problem joining once. The stories that are heard, usually flow on to other areas. And for those who want to reach out but from a distance - this is also perfectly fine, a financial contribution allows the work to continue: holding the "peace van", or promoting joint projects that require money,it is also very necessary.
So if what is written here touched you - you can contact us or donate in the link below.
To donate to the project: https://my.israelgives.org/en/campaign/12103