By: Annemarie/ Germany

The past 14 days have been some of the most fulfilling in my life and trying to recap these in a few words will be almost impossible. The experiences and knowledge that I have taken home is priceless, I wish we had more time in Nablus. Meeting so many young minds all open and interested has been very refreshing especially seeing how strong and proud young Palestinians are of their country, ready to defend and fight for equal rights and freedom to bring an end to this occupation.

Working together with the children from the refugee camp was amazing. These energetic children took part in our games and ideas; and while we taught them English, they taught us a lesson about life. Looking at the children in Askar, I found them to have warm yet fearful smiles, deep dark brown eyes hiding away the sorrow and distress, and most importantly, a sense of hopefulness, especially in us to help them forget for a while and make them happy. I felt a whole new world open up within me when little 3 years old Hala would fall into my arms and smile. This child has made me go home with a smile on my face, one I am so grateful for.

These children are very special in the way they interact among themselves- brothers walking hand in hand with their sisters and taking care of one another. This is an image one cannot find anywhere else. I thank Askar Development Centre for giving these children hope for a better future and for giving international volunteers the opportunity to learn life-altering lessons from these children.

I have gone home a changed person: the knowledge I have taken home about Palestine, the hospitable and friendly people and the greater discovery of my Western lifestyle and myself. Thank you Zajel you gave me a whole new perspective of life and myself. Thanks to all the international and local volunteers for the deep conversations and for all the great memories. I have left Palestine with hope and with energy to support your struggle- Palestine will be free!