From Bethlehem in the West Bank
Monday, October 31
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| Father Cyprian Consiglio singing with Palestinian Youth |
Today we met with young Palestinians in Bethlehem. Our first were the waiters in our falafel restaurant, who asked to see Cyprian's guitar. He opened the case and their eyes were wide with wonder. They both held it and took pictures of each other in rock star poses. So precious! Cyprian asked if they wanted him to play for them and we sang The Drink Sent Down. Zhikr in the falafel shop and newly made friends.
Our next stop was across the street to Dalal Cultural Center where Palestinian youth from Bethlehem and the surrounding refugee camps learn conflict resolution, how to write proposals for initiatives to improve their communities and reconnecting with their cultural heritage through music, art and dance.
We were greeted at the top of the stairs by the youth themselves; practicing their English and shaking hands. And then they danced.
In a place with so much injustice and inequality they danced with joy, with strength and with pride. We were swept up in the energy, clapping and whooping and smiling the biggest smiles many of us had had in days.
We returned the favor by sharing some songs with them. Singing Bismillah in a room full of young Arabs was thrilling. They sang along and the mingling of our voices made me remember what heaven must sound like. We were one voice, one people. Curious and welcoming to one another without fear.
They shared some of their work with us; empowering women, seeking to end child abuse and teaching children positive communication. And then they danced again.
And we danced and sang together and the angels in heaven rejoiced. This is what I came for. To sing, to dance, to celebrate our differences and see how underneath them all, we are one.
Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild & precious life? ~ Mary Oliver
