Don't Ask. Don't Tell.
I've noticed, since returning from my trip to Palestine, very few of my Jewish acquaintances have asked me about my trip. It's become an unspoken subject between us. When I run into them, we go through the standard salutory motions and then continue on our respective ways but not before looking at each other with a silent look that locks both our eyes together before we both quickly turn them away. I can only speculate at what they might be thinking.
Nor have I volunteered information to them about my trip. I just don't even know to begin telling them of what my experience travelling through Israel and the West Bank was like. It just seems like an abrasive subject to all of a sudden bring up in light of our respective opinions and beliefs about the situation.
There have been some Jewish friends, well aware of the ignorance, hatred and racism that exists among many Israelis against Arabs and especially Palestinians, who have approached me and expressed concern about how my trip went. Even with them, I have a very tough time broaching the subject in spite of their understanding. It does give me some degree of comfort to know that not all Israelis or Jews subscribe to the ideology of hate against the Arab people and that some are in complete solidarity with the people of Palestine.
hi - just came across your blog which had me captivated for the last hour. i loved reading about your travels through palestine and life there - it's something americans (in general) don't know too much about but have learned to fear and hate. thanks for writing and sharing, look forward to reading more.
~riye
www.thischarmingman.com
Posted by Anonymous | 8:52 AM