By Rachel Hamre

So far, we have spent most of our time with Palestinians and will continue to do so. This allows us to focus on the side of the story – as told by the oppressed – that is barely whispered in the U.S. It was wonderful, however, to meet two Israeli Jews who hope for peace.

The first, Rami Elhanan, told a heartbreaking story of turning the loss of a child into a hopeful and peace-seeking message for every body else. (Check out Parents Circle on YouTube or Google.)

The second was Dalia, the Jewish girl from the story of “The Lemon Tree.” She told a story of opening her mind and heart to see that what she had been conditioned to believe may not be the universal truth. (Check out The Open House, http://www.friendsofopenhouse.co.il/)

IDF Soldiers

Previously, we had toured the Old City of Jerusalem which included beautiful scenery and architecture, along with important religious and historic placemarks. I have five pages of notes about historical people, places, and events, but only one sight is burned into our minds.

As we were passing shops, we saw a checkpoint where a young Palestinian boy, maybe 14, was trying to pass. As he exited the metal detector, a soldier knocked his change to the ground. He stood menacingly as the boy quietly picked it up, leaving as quickly as he could. As he exited the area, a second guard stuck his leg out in an attempt to trip the boy.

I think we were all disturbed by this blatant display of harassment and stepped into the 7th station of the cross. Here, a group member spoke a moving prayer and we sat together, as one, in solidarity with those affected by violence and racism.