Haverim (friends)-

People keep asking me if I am nervous going to Israel during such a tumultuous time. The truth is I feel like if it is not one tumultuous time it is another. I love going to Israel- though my first time was rough; I expected a magical feeling and instead I kept getting pushed out of the way waiting for buses. Though after numerous visits, there is such chutzpah mixed with holiness mixed with the love/hate family relationships tied up in intense politics.

I am much more nervous that my group of 39 Jews, Christians and Muslims have not had any discussions about what we will find. This feels very vulnerable to go with people of other faiths while I feel so conflicted about the occurances in Gaza. I know that I have the tendency to hide things like this within the "Jewish family"; yet the whole world is watching anyways. The cover story on yesterday's NYT was heartbreaking though--a woman (settler) was being carried out screaming by a female Israeli soldier who was crying.

I am looking forward to sharing this experience with my sister who was invited on this trip by the organizer. Sharing such a meaningful place and trip together will be something that we will never forget. My World Pilgrims trip to Turkey was such a powerful experience thatI look forward to meeting the new folks as well as deepening my friendships with those from the past trip. Each time my hope for humanity is strengthened. My journey begins with my seat mate on the plane who is a Muslim journalist close to my age. We should have interesting stories to swap.

I do not know how much if any computer time I will have while I am away. I am hopeful so I set up this blog. Keep us in your prayers for safety and harmony.

Warmly,

Rabbi Josh