Bridget/ UK

Trying to write a reflection on the last two weeks is an impossible task as falling into clichés seems inevitable but there I fall, I don’t know where to start and I don’t even know how to be put into words the experience I’ve just had.

I have seen the amazing ability of children to just get on, laugh, play and appreciate the smallest things. A smile from an Asker child is a true gift and one that they are quite willing to give despite everything around them. I have found out what true dignity and resilience looks like and it will stay with me always. I also found joy, laughter and fun and I have never felt such warmth and hospitality anywhere. I found a rich culture and beauty in a land that is only ever painted as a war zone to the outside world. I found new friends and a sense of belonging that is unique in such a short space of time. This is why Zajel is special and why no matter how many times I say thank you to the local volunteers I will never be able to convey just how heartfelt my thanks are.

After two weeks, hard and frustrating at times, but truly rewarding in the end I leave with hope…for Palestine that was and more importantly for Palestine that will be.