Current Events

[Smile]

Tori, you seem very interested in Jewish culture, I went to Israel on my honeymoon many years ago, my late husband and I did a great deal of travelling, we managed even to get a pass by the police and crossed into Jordon, I have seen the wailing wall as it is called. I might add, I am not jewish, but certainly found the culture in that part of the world interesting, what a pity it will be if it is destroyed by war. I have a jewish lawyer who is praying for war and I find that very disturbing

[Snowden]

Smile, it was called the Wailing Wall, but now it's simply known as the Western Wall, since it is once again possible for the Jews to be in Jerusalem. I went there first in 1979 and eight times after that.

All my friends there are Palestinians, and at this point I believe all still there are Muslims. I was going back to spend three weeks in the Old City, the Muslim Quarter, in October 2000. Unfortunately, the current Oslo War/Intefada started in September so I didn't make it. I had the gifts and travel accessories packed - Woolite packettes, etc. The situation has deteriorated so badly that I can't get a phone call through to them.

The cultures are great to visit - I wouldn't want to live in that culture, either Jewish or Palestinian. It is just that I'm too old to assimilate with it. And to be a Muslim is not a happy thing. It's as if joy is outlawed in the Quran.

But the fascination and lure of the Mid East is undeniable.

[Joyous]

Smile, I will not defend your lawyer, but perhaps he knows that war will break the hold of terrorists which devastate Israel at this time.

You may disagree with this, but I just think it may explain his attitude. Many people in our own country hope for war. Not I, but I guess I have to accept what our government decides. They are more aware of circumstances than am I.