First Weeks in Israel

I thought I knew all about the occupation. I thought I knew all about the settlements, the violence and the lack of human rights. I thought I knew how it would feel to go through an Israeli checkpoint, having a simple 30-minute trip turn into a humiliating one that takes over an hour-and-a-half.

But really, I didn’t know a whole hell of a lot. I’ve been in Palestine for less than two weeks, and I still don’t know anything, albeit a bit more than I did in Montreal. And while I have about a billion things I could talk about – a billion instances that made me want to cry, or scream, or both – I want to focus on the positives.

First would be the atmosphere at the organization I’m working with. From meeting my boss and discussing the structure of the internship, to realizing that eight hours had gone by in a flash on my first day, I’m really enjoying doing something I care about. I know that it’s a cliché, but it’s really not working when you love what you’re doing. And so far I really do.

Second has been the support I’ve received from (most of) the people I care about. Yes, there was an incident this week where I was called a biased journalist (who isn’t?) and basically a bad person, but aside from that, mostly everyone has been so supportive. Which is incredibly important to me, someone who hasn’t always been confident in my beliefs and in the principled stances I’ve taken or tried to take.

Being here has actually reinforced my level of confidence, actually, which is another great thing. Seeing what’s happening here with my own eyes – the pain, the injustice, the blatant and accepted discrimination, and the poison that is the occupation – has shown me that I’m doing the right thing, despite the attacks and hurtful words that will be flung my way sometimes. I’m here at the right time, both in the context of the political situation here, and for myself. Despite a few emotional breakdowns and butterflies before, during and after my departure from Montreal, I know that I am ready to be here. I’m happy to be here.

But ultimately, perhaps the best thing I’ve experienced so far is the amazing (A-MAZING!) hospitality I’ve benefitted from since my arrival. Whether it be being hosted in Haifa for three nights and sharing conversation and ideas with new friends, or having an inspirational 18-year-old freelance journalist/student (and genuinely impressive person) from Hebron act as an interpreter and tour guide while exploring his city, the generosity I’ve been shown is truly heart-warming.

I’ve also learned that it is almost impossible (if not entirely impossible) to turn down an offer from a Palestinian host. Coffee? Beer? Tea? Shisha? Cake? Anything? A response of “no, thanks!” definitely doesn’t work. I was told that the sense of community was strong here, but it’s been really incredible to see it for myself.

So, I may not know it all yet. And I probably won’t ever will. But for all the bright spots I’ve experienced in the last few days, Shukran. Shukran, jazeelan. I hope (actually, I know) that there will be many more to come.