November 6, 2002

In Zababdeh, Christians and Muslims work and live side by side.

Today is the first day of Ramadan, the Muslim month of fasting. From sun-up to sun-down, the faithful do not eat or drink anything. Exceptions are made, particularly for the sick, the young, the old, the pregnant and breastfeeding, and the traveling. Even though most of Zababdeh is Christian, we try to make a point of not eating in public - doing so seems to imply a touch of disrespect.

The Jenin closure is having its impact on the school far more than simply the students who are unable to come. The teachers receive their salaries by picking it up at the Bank of Egypt branch in Jenin. However, no one can get to Jenin, and even if they could, the bank is closed anyway. As a result, even though the teachers (unlike so many here now) are gainfully employed, they are essentially making no money. One teacher commented that he only has 5 shekels (about $1) to his name. He dug in his pocket to show it, and came out with only a key. Everyone laughed ruefully - not even a buck, and no end in sight.

In the evening, kids shot off fireworks in celebration of the beginning of Ramadan - we find ourselves still a bit jumpy from loud noises.