Written by Josh:
These past few weeks, which at times seemed to lag on forever, have been quite grueling at times. Just a month ago, I wasn't expecting our plans to actually come through. But now, with my plane ticket in hand and my suitcase packed, our plans have become imprinted on the face of reality.
I look forward to traveling the land that is of utmost importance to so many religions. I look forward to seeing the sites that many would actually die for. I look forward to immersing myself in a culture that is so radically different than the one I live and breathe here in the suburbs of America. I look forward to experiencing a society that speaks a different language, practices different customs, and observes many religions that are alien to me. I look forward to the independence that this trip grants me; having to budget my finances, navigate a foreign country, supply myself with essential needs and etc. Above all, I look forward to experiencing the Palestinian-Israeli conflict from a first-hand perspective.
I was raised in an Orthodox Jewish family, in a community that was passionately Zionist. I remember as a child attending protests in support of the state of Israel, raising my middle finger in opposition to the pro-Palestinian protesters. In high school, Michael and I began to think for ourselves, despite our school telling us what to believe. After researching the conflict in depth, we began to reach different conclusions. This journey that we are undertaking will be a culmination of our research; a great opportunity to discover the reality behind the conflict and the current situation in Israel and in Palestine.
We'll try to keep the blog updated as regularly as possible, to share our experiences, observations, photos, and interesting encounters.
Thanks to my family and friends who have supported me,
Josh
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Hey Josh!
ReplyDeleteMan you're in my prayers, I hope you get there safe n sound inshAllah, and I already told you this but I really admire your effort to go all the way down there and help and searching for the truth n stuff. I'll be sure to read your blog often.
Take care man
- Your British Friend.
Hey Josh,
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you're going on this trip because few of those who share your opinion also share your courage. I know I would not willingly go there.
Give my regards to Lieutenant General Keith Dayton if you see him.
~ Ben Halpern
Hello Josh!
ReplyDeleteI am very excited to see that you have embarked on your dream adventure! I Look forward to following your travels vicariously! Take me along on your fabulous expedition!Be safe. You are missed and loved!!
Aunt Sandee and Uncle Bruce
Josh,
ReplyDeleteI hope that while you are in Palestine and Israel, you will have the opportunity to meet Rabbi Arik Ascherman who is the director of Rabbis for Human Rights. If you want me to help you make the connection, let me know.
shalom/salaam, Rabbi Gila
Hi Josh,
ReplyDeleteIt's rare that people can change their thinking when all their life they have been exposed to hearing about something from one point of view. I wish you the best of luck in your journey and I hope you are able to open other people's hearts and minds to the current situation in Palestine.