Dusk on the Old City walls is an experience. Yesterday I pulled myself away from studies long enough for some memorable experiences. A group of us went to Jerusalem's New City to get a feel for their coffee/tea selection. I decided to be adventurous (when in Israel!?) and ordered what I believe was called Shablah(probably spelled that incorrectly). It is an Egyptian drink or so the cafe menu said and consists of steamed or warm milk a hint a vanilla shaved cashews for a nutty taste and some other ingredients I failed to notice. I have to say other than it being a hot drink in 80 to 90 degree weather it was really good.
After dinner we went for a walk along the Old City walls. It was a really cool way to see the city both New and Old. There are scars of the '67 war still up there and really makes this wall a living part of history. I took a picture of Zion Gate (right next to my school) and it is covered in bullet holes. These are a testimony to the violence and sacrifice different people have made for even just a small quarter of this city known as Jerusalem.
Ok food for thought for all of you. In the States we have lots of land which in turn creates lots of space and an attitude less inclined to tie ourselves as Americans to a specific spot in America (you may want to reread that). With that said it is entirely different here. I know the longer history here reinforces certain attitudes towards holy spots like the Temple Mount (a Jewish and Islamic holy sight), but get this there are SIX denominations that share the Church of the Holy Seplechre. Now granted they fight terribly at times and it got to the point where a Muslim family is in charge of the gate key (embarrassing I know). I am still amazed that the church is still standing let alone the city.
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