November 24, 2003

Jerusalem’s Old City walls, with a view toward West Jerusalem

After catching a quick slice of bread and cup of tea this morning, we took one last look at the view of Jerusalem and loaded up our bags and walked with Deacon Imad toward St. George's Guesthouse. There, we meet our friend Alain and a few Mennonite Central Committee folks headed to visit the school in Zababdeh, considering possible programs here. We were more than happy to hitch a ride with them, as travel now is harder than ever. After a smooth scenic drive up the Jordan valley road, we turned off at Tayasir checkpoint. We spent the next few hours trying to negotiate our way across the checkpoint. We were told in no uncertain terms that we should not pass from this checkpoint, because Hamra is meant for us. Hamra has mostly meant frustration and abuse (and three hour waits) over the past few months, so we knew better than that.

"I pass here all the time," Marthame told one soldier.

"I've never seen you before, and I've been here for a month," was his reply.

"A month? I've been here three years!"

After two hours, we were permitted to pass, and soon enough we were in Zababdeh, touring the school. After a look at the facility, we all enjoyed a meal together in the Latin compound and coffee with a neighbor. Then the Mennonites had to be on their way, hoping to be allowed out again to return to Jerusalem. They dropped us and our many bags off as they left town. It's good to be home again.