Life is a series of beginnings and endings, and it is hard to believe I will be returning home in a couple of days. I leave behind months of trying to be useful, experiencing what the Palestinians face on a daily basis and receiving genuine friendships from people who are under seige.I have seen the results of the stress of the occupation, I have laughed with the children around me and have been inspired by the daily acts of generosity. I am grateful for having had this second opportunity to live among the Palestinans and see the beauty which exists among them. The land inspires thoughts of ancient peoples and yesterday I was invited to visit some newly discovered archeological finds from Byzantine times, not far from Hope School. Ironically it was the digging of the "wall" that led to the discovery of the storage caves and large, circular stones for crushing grapes. The "wall"continues to be built around Beit Jala and and with it beautiful sections of land are lost to their rightful owners. The news of the attack on the Gaza flotilla has dampened our spirits and one wonders how people even survive in Gaza. A friend whose grandmother lives in Gaza, tells me there is a great need for medicine, for building materials and school supplies. Often fruit and vegetables that are ready to be exported from Gaza are held up and spoil in the heat. Life is not easy here, but I have gained insight into the complexity of a conflict which has no easy answers. It is unfortunate the West has not been able to play a more successful role in bringing peace to this region. May peace be with you and your loved ones. Salaam, yvonne