One of the soldiers had scrawled in English on his army jacket, "F*** the world." Somehow appropriate.

We had a lively discussion with the students about the role of women in society - there was as much variety in opinion among the all-male, mostly-Muslim students as you would expect to find in an American classroom.

Word filtered through later in the day that an eleven year old girl had been killed on her way to school by Israeli soldiers who had invaded Jenin. Needless to say, those of us responsible for the safety of students are concerned by such reports.

We had a couple of visitors a few nights ago, and Marthame had casually mentioned that he wanted to get a galabiye, or a dishdashe, the gown worn by men at home here. They're very comfortable, and in the summer they're extremely cool.

We spent the afternoon visiting with one of the Muslim families of Zababdeh whose daughter teaches religion in the school to the Muslim children.

They dropped Marthame off, and he found his way to the Melkite Bishopric to meet with Bishop Boutros Ma'alim.

Reports came on CNN of stadiums full of football fans chanting "USA! USA!" when hearing the bombing had started. And we're confused as to why there're anti-American sentiments in the world?

Kids are also rallying around their flag here - something in common between Americans and Palestinians.