By Sedena Salce – United States/Bosnia

My reflection will be a little bit different than the rest. Last year after my first visit to Palestine, I put in words, as best I can, the life changing experience that is Zajel. I convey the initial fears prior to arrival, the first heartwarming hospitable encounters, the absolutely loving communities you meet, amazing trips to Bethlehem & Hebron (among others), and the somber goodbye that pulls you apart from the place you fall in love with so dearly. What I wish to share with my reflection is life after Zajel, the life that no longer is the same.

Many people ask me why. Why do I return? Why do I struggle to raise awareness? Why do I put my career or my future at risk, for what is perceived as the “hopeless” Palestinian cause. Well, my answer is quite simple actually. Beautifully summed up in my favorite saying: “to be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, But to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others”. I am one person, a single being. I am aware I cannot liberate Palestine, I cannot lift the siege on Gaza, and I cannot establish statehood. But what I can do is raise awareness, tell friends and family stories of these beautiful people called Palestinians, I can demonstrate in protests, I can lobby in congress, and I can stand in solidarity. Even if nothing comes from my efforts, it is enough for me to just return and see my Palestinian family smile. I’ll always come back, even if it’s just to see them smile. Their smiles are sincere and full of grace.

Palestine is not hopeless, it is not futile, and it is not despairing. Palestine is so much more than occupation. It is a rich culture, with a comforting heritage. It is locals inviting you for coffee and tea just because they’re happy to see you. It is a cuisine that never leaves you unsatisfied. It is antiquated buildings and towns. It is breathtaking sunsets, ones I promise you haven’t seen anywhere in the world. Palestine is holy, it is dabke, it is keffiyeh, it is knafeh, and it is the heart of resistance. If there’s anything that I’ve learned during my stays in Palestine…it’s that being Palestinian is not just about being born in this homeland, but rather having the homeland be born in side you…in our hearts. As for my dear friends here, there’s no need to ask me whether or not I will return again. I mean…how can one live life not returning home?