It started off as a normal Rubin-ite day–breakfast outdoors. We were scheduled to go to the Temple Mount, a site holy to Jews, Muslims and Christians, and then to the Holy Sepulcher with visits to the site of Jesus’ crucifixion and burial.
As you may have read in the news, there was a little incident at the Temple Mount. However, how it was reported in the news and what really occurred are two different things. We have been noticing the propoganda machine at work and this is one of those situations. Please know we were all SAFE during this incident. It barely made the news here and the wall right below it was never even shut down. It was barely news here by the afternoon.
Instead of going to the Old City for the above, we instead toured the security belt, viewing the neighborhoods and security fence with scholar Eitan Katz as well as receiving an overview of the current issues.
Next we did a little shopping! Well, about 2 hours of shopping! Then off to eat the best fallafels ever and then…Amir led us on a spontaneous tour of the Sepreme Court. The design is pleasing to the eye and everything about its design is purposeful.
Next, we went to Amir’s house for dinner. Going to Amir’s house for dinner was wonderful. We were able to see how the middle class lives, eats and decorates! The food was delicious. Amir lives in a beautiful house in the West Bank with a full and established garden, modern furnishings and lots of love and warmth to fill the place. Afterwards, sitting on his second floor balcony, drinking teas and coffee…we reflected on our trip so far.
We talked about Jerusalem, politics, long walks, dinner, peace, Israel, etc. Jimmy asked our favorite experience so far and we all traded our stories. It was a really special conversation and a special time for all of us. We all feel so blessed to be here and are so thankful to the Rubins and our families who have allowed us to be able to experience everything so far.
To see pictures, click HERE.