Journal 2

The memories of walking in the crowded streets, buying prayer rugs from local vendors, smelling the fresh falafel and handmade bread as you try to not lose your relatives through the crowds of people. Many of us take for granted returning to places we love, no even questioning if it will still be there when we return because we assume its not going anywhere. My family and I take trips to Florida every winter break and the question of is our resort still going to be open, or will there sill be our favorite pool to swim in next year, never crosses our minds. Every time I travel to Palestine, my brothers are always hesitant and reluctant to travel but my mother reminds them that it may not be there the next year we decide to travel. Such thoughts, are saddening but at the same time  instill the patriotic ideals we have about Palestine. To question if the Al Aqsa mosque will still be standing, if our great grandparents home will still be in the same condition we left it in, if the local taxi driver will still have his job; these are all questions that I ask to myself every time I leave Palestine. It is sad but it also strengthens the emotions and makes the memories in Palestine when I'm there more memorable and unforgettable. Walking to the little markets with my cousins, riding the taxis alone with my brothers, giving charity to the homeless and feeling that instant satisfaction knowing that you truly have changed their lives for the better; are just a few of the memories that will last with me for a lifetime.
I find myself tearing up while writing this journal entry, because there are times when I forget to thank God for the uncountable blessings I have in my life. The fact that I have traveled to Palestine at least every other year since I was born is one of those blessings that I thank God for each and every day because I understand that, that alone is something millions of people of all faiths could only dream of.  Just being in the third holiest site sends chills down ones spine, but praying there especially on a Friday is one of those experiences that cant be expressed with words. I am thankful for having the privilege of praying in Al-Aqsa Mosque and I pray each and every day that it will still be as beautiful as it is today when I take my children there in the future, Inshallah (God willing).