Camp ’08 Next Generation Counselors Gaza Through the Lens India

Home , Hate the Other Side, Seeds of Peace, Yana Gorskaya

THE Youth Magazine of Seeds of Peace Olive Branch Fall 2008 Volume XI Issue I Camp ’08 Next generation counselors Gaza through the lens India — Pakistan Homestays

Final Status: Jerusalem Plus your letters, art & poems

SEEDS OF PEACE CAMP, MAINE 2 The Olive Branch 14 30 27 24 22 20 18 10 4 COVER PHOTO CREDIT: SARAH NORTON peace totheholycity. discuss theirideasforbringing Four Jerusalemresidents LOOKING AHEAD helping newcampers. but thistimeascounselors Older SeedsreturntoMaine, Seed RUNCAMP 2007 &2008inMaine. A lookbackatsummers cAMP INpICTURES Palgharwala & Aleigh Mills. to OmarSherein,Mehzabeen Friends paytribute in memoriam & theNBA withIman Azzi. growing upintheMiddleEast Steve Kerrtalkspeace, THE INTERVIEW from acrosstheborder. in Pakistan,hostedbyfriends Indian Seedsspendaweek INDO-PAK HOMESTAYS of theirneighborhoods. Gaza Seedssharephotos THROUGH THE LENS documetary aredoingtoday. featured inthe2004SEEDS We findoutwhatthepeople WHERE ARETHEYnoW? to learnfilmmaking. Canadians meetonanisland Young Palestinians,Israelis& DIALOGUE &FILM 31 Poems/Art 8 SeedsintheLead 6 Letters 3 ContributorMap 3 FromtheEditors DEPARTMENTS Fall 2008 American people. International Developmentandthe by agrantfromtheUS Agency for Communications. Itismadepossible Eric KapengaandprintedbyV&V The OliveBranch [email protected]. content orstyle.Sendcorrespondenceto of Peaceandmaybeeditedforlength, All submissionsarethepropertyofSeeds Assistant Editors Eli Steinberg&LamaMashni, Eric Kapenga,Editor Branch USAID, ofPeace, by Seeds shared necessarily not are and magazine the for edit and write who Seeds of the those are pages these on expressed opinions All program. ofPeace Seeds ofthe part are who ofconflict regions from by youth produced and edited Branch Olive The required to end the cycles of war. leadership and conflict resolution techniquesteenagers can air their views and learnis created the at our camp in Maine whereand these conflict resolution. A safe workenvironment towards peace through coexistenceyoung leaders from regions of conflictorganization to that develops and empowersSeeds of Peace is a non-profit, non-political Ramy Nagy, Ala’a Al-Talbishi Michel Jreisat,DorKaidar, RashaMukbil, Eisenbaum, BasharIraqi,SaraJabari, Ali El Alfy, HagaiBenKuzari,Moran Leena Yahia Inessa Shishmanyan,Omar Tayeh, Sawsan Samara, Azza ElSherbiny, Eti Michaeli,DanielMoses,EyalRonder, Mailhot, FeruzanMehta,DannyMetzl, Eric Kapenga,Leslie Adelson Lewin,Paul Claire Dibsy Ayed, MohammedIsleem, Farhat Aghbaria, Sajjad Ahmed, Zia Aria, for theircontributionstowardsthisisssue. Marj Safinia, Arn Tellem & Avi Goldstein action. Special thanks goes to Steve Kerr, for their fantastic photographs of Seeds in Noronha, RadhikaLalla&ChrisGriffith Gottschalk, SarahsBigney&Norton, Ajay The EditorswishtothankBobbie Janet Wallach, PresidentEmeritus Program Staff/Regional Offices Volume XI,IssueI The OliveBranchStaff , or its staff. its , or John Wallach, Founder Regional Coordinators Seeds ofPeace Fall 2008 is a magazine written, written, amagazine is contentsis designedby The Olive Olive The From the editors

E ARE very excited to welcome new readers from Israeli & Palestinian schools to The Olive Branch. This is our 13th year of publication—since 1996 we have been a platform for young people in regions of conflict to share their opinions Wand experiences with each other, and now, with a wider audience. As always, the magazine is edited by Seeds of Peace graduates. This year, the editors are Lama Mashni, a Palestinian from Jerusalem, and Eli Steinberg, an Israeli from Tel-Aviv. Both of us attended the Seeds of Peace International Camp in Maine back in 1999. In this issue, we focus on what happens at that Camp. for regional editors and writers for the next edition. Each summer, hundreds of young people from conflict Contact us at [email protected] if you are zones around the world spend three weeks together; we interested. find out what they learned and hear from older Seeds And please send us your feedback to the same address. who have returned to Camp as counselors. As always, we hope you find The Olive Branch Our next issue will focus on what happens when thought-provoking, Seeds come back to their communities after the Camp challenging, program. For those of you who are Seeds, we are looking and informative.

where this issue’s haifa contributors nicosia tira ramallah are from portland, maine jerusalem kabul new york lahore cairo kiryat gat washington, dc mumbai chicago, illinois gaza city dallas, texas ashdod ashqelon hebron

KEY CAMP TERMS SEEDS: Members of Seeds of Peace whose participation DIALOGUE: Daily 90-minute sessions run by began when they attended the organization’s summer professional facilitators during which Seeds are given camp in Maine between 1993 & 2008. time to discuss issues relating to their conflict with MAINE: This state, home to beautiful lakes, trees and campers from the ‘other side’ of the conflict. moose, is located in the northeast corner of the US and is GROUP CHALLENGE: A Camp activity that parallels the where the Seeds of Peace Camp is located. dialogue process and uses a series of high and low ropes DELEGATIONS: Seeds attend Camp as members of course elements to challenge the Seeds and reinforce an official delegation. In 2007 & 2008, those delegations trust and communication. were Afghan, American, Egyptian, Indian, Israeli, COLOR GAMES: A 3-day period toward the end of Camp Jordanian, Pakistani, Palestinian and our program for during which campers are divided into two teams—Green youth from the State of Maine. & Blue—and compete against each other in a variety BUNK: The 22 lakeside cabins that house the 170 of athletic & artistic events. Color Games intensifies all campers and 50 counselors. A shared living environment aspects of the Camp program and takes teamwork, trust, for 10-15 people is an integral part of the program. communication and leadership to a new level.

The Olive Branch Fall 2008 3 Camp 2007•2008 culture night pleasant lake

picture time flag raising culture night

sports day true

line up otisfield ropes course

dialogue culture night

nba day

bbc rain color games

4 The Olive Branch Fall 2008 LALLA NORONHA, RADHIKA AJAY SARAH BIGNEY, CREDITS: BOBBIE GOTTSCHALK, SARAH NORTON, PHOTO softball dialogue group challenge

parade

color games

flag raising superheroes canoeing

more rain team work culture night

sports day group challenge sailing

camp fire color games

The Olive Branch Fall 2008 5 CAMP REFLECTIONS all those Seeds who made the Camp what it is. I don’t think there was a single per- Seeds of Peace is a community that has son I knew at Camp that I don’t miss. influenced me in an infinite number of I just want to thank you Seeds, for truly ways. It has taught me so much about opening my mind. Letters myself and the world I live in. It has Maged (Cairo) [email protected] taught me to become a better listener and to understand where others may be coming from with their opinions. WHY WAIT FOR THE FUTURE? Being surrounded by so many incredible and brilliant people has helped me If you ask any of us Seeds studying in to realize my own potential. I hope that the US, almost everyone would say their as an individual, I will be able to bring purpose is to get “a good education to some of what I learned at Seeds to my help their country in the future.” school community, as well as the other We—myself included—tend to focus on communities that I am a part of. I hope goals that are way too large and unre- that I can help to influence others to be alistic for the people we are, and forget better, more aware people and that I can that little things matter. help others reach their full potential. With the kind of opportunities we have I have so much love and respect for studying in the United States, we can do Seeds of Peace that I believe that I would specific things in the present that seem be letting down the organization and very small here, but have the potential to myself if I did not try my hardest to make a huge difference in our communi- make a difference in the community I ties back at home. live in, and just as importantly, keep on I too used to wait for the future to do trying to improve myself. something substantial, but during my Nick (Washington, DC) community service work in the past cou- ple of years, I have realized that projects that are easily within our power in the “Campsickness.” It’s one thing I’m sure present can make massive difference. I’ve every single camper has felt after coming realized that taking action now, though back from those three incredible weeks it might seem minimal compared to what at Seeds of Peace. someone can do from a position of power, Everybody I met before going to Maine can make a remarkable difference. talked about Camp being a “life-chang- My old school in Kabul, Afghanistan, ing” experience. I didn’t understood how is a public institution that serves 10,000 that might be—it was just a camp, after students daily in three shifts. Dur- all. ing two decades of war, the school was Well, I can now say that I’ve never turned into a bunch of classrooms with been more wrong in my life: it turned broken windows. Desks and chairs, the out to be one the most challenging, but shelves from the library, as well as most nevertheless incredible, experiences I’ve of its books, had been used as fire wood ever had. during the rough winters by displaced Never before did I think I would cry for families taking shelter in the school. someone from the “other side.” Again I But, with very little to no resources, was wrong; the last day I cried plenty. a new principal has turned the lifeless I only really understood how life- campus into a most conducive environ- changing this experience has been after ment for learning. coming back and talking to my old After studying for two years at Deer- friends. field Academy in Massachusetts, I took You feel you’ve been changed: the way my first trip home and was absolutely you argue, the way you listen—actually amazed by the amount of progress made the way you pretty much do everything. in the school that once was taking its last It’s so hard to come back to your old breaths. Witnessing the headmaster’s routine, your old life, after making those work and the revitalized energy on friendships. campus, I felt obliged to make full use of One of the things I miss most about my contacts at Deerfield and help my old Camp was also the toughest part—dia- school. logue. Even though I faced many, many With a grant from Deerfield and a frustrating and difficult moments, I summer internship grant from Seeds enjoyed myself most when I was sitting of Peace, I re-established the school’s in that dialogue hut. It was amazing to library during the summer of 2006. We see how everybody listened and sympa- painted the room, built shelves from thized. I’m sure all of you know what I’m scratch, got new curtains and furniture, talking about, and I hope I was not the and started a book drive. only one having a hard time explaining The library project, however, was only the “process” to my non-Seed friends. the beginning. Upon my return to Deer- I figured out that whether or not my field, I decided to raise funds for another opinions change is not the important project. With the help of friends, I wrote thing. What’s truly important is how I letters to Deerfield alumni, families, and can listen and understand the opposite personal friends asking for donations. I point of view, even if I disagree with it raised close to $3,000 for the construc- completely. tion of a small pool with a water fountain To me this is one of the most valuable in the middle of the campus. lessons I’ve learnt at Seeds. Last summer, I started a computer lab. When someone asks me why those The most difficult part of this project were the best three weeks I’ve ever had, was finding transportation for the used I don’t know where to start. Was it all laptops that my Deerfield science teacher the activities and trying new things that had personally repaired. After a long made it special? Was it the amazing staff search, we finally found a shipper and that helped us through this experience? the computers were delivered after three I guess both, but even more importantly, months and many phone calls and assur-

PHOTO CREDITS: Bobbie gottschalk, SARAH BIGNEY, AJAY NORONHA, RADHIKA LALLA 6 The Olive Branch Fall 2008 ances that they were for academic and humanitarian purposes only. Two groups of 20—one faculty group and one student group—now go through basic computer literacy training in the lab. The Ministry of Education has also promised to provide an Internet hookup to the school. Students will be able to connect to the outside world through the computers provided by Deerfield. I never felt the need to have had a college degree or “a great education” in carrying out any of these projects. All I needed was the help of my understanding friends and acquaintances that I have made throughout the years in the US, a few phone calls, some paperwork, and a little time and commitment. The results and the impact were hugely surprising. Coming from a place like Afghanistan, I realize that things that feel tiny here in the US have the potential to make a huge difference back home. All I had to do was to convince myself that I didn’t have to wait for the future when I could take action for the betterment in the present. That is the question I want to pose by telling you my story: why wait for the future when your actions can make a huge difference now? Mujib (Kabul)

PAKISTAN INITIATIVE Every year my school holds a bazaar. A few days before the start, the state of emergency was declared in Pakistan. For a moment I found myself trapped in feelings of anger and hopelessness. But we went ahead and created a Seeds of Peace (SOP) information stall to create awareness about the organization. Fasiha, Narmeen & Sana joined me in putting up pictures and posters and ar- ranging an art competition. I never thought people would be so interested in knowing about SOP—we got a wonderful response! This is just so that you guys know that no matter how bad the problems your country is facing are, carry on with your objective and you will surely succeed. Nur (Lahore)

THE TWO WOLVES This story was sent to me by my mum, and I immediately thought of Seeds of Peace. I hope that all of you get a chance to read this and really think about it. One evening an old Cherokee told his grandson about a battle that goes on inside people. He said, “My son, the battle is between two ‘wolves’ inside us all. “One is Evil. It is anger, envy, jealousy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self- pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego. “The other is Good. It is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion and faith.” The grandson thought about it for a minute and then asked his grandfather: See something to which you’d like to respond? ‘Which wolf wins?’ Your letters are most welcome! The old Cherokee simply replied, “The one you feed.” Letters are edited for length, content Do great things and keep in touch. and style. Meg (Kents Hill, Maine) E-mail submissions to [email protected] The Olive Branch Fall 2008 7 Ahmed Helal (Cairo) AHMED (2006) HELPED organize a series of sports events to help a school for hundreds of Sudanese & Somali refugees. A group of Egyptian Seeds began fund raising in 2007 when they discovered the school had no athletics facilities. During one event, the group rented out a football field and coached games for 150 boys. At another event, they added basketball & vol- leyball for the school’s girls. Through these interactions, Ahmed and the energy they have that is says he learned a lot about Cairo’s not put into activities is taken to the refugee community and the issues it streets.” faces. Ahmed’s next project is to organize “The level of education they receive a Color Games sports event for the is not good, the UN is not helping, school. Hannah Lantos (Chicago) Hannah (1999) has been in Zambia for almost a year and a half as part of a two-year commitment to the US Peace Corps. Her project is called the “RED” project, which stands for Rural Educational Development. She lives in a thatch hut in a village called Kamwanya with her two cats. She works with the local Ministry of Edu- cation office on a number of projects —including monitoring and evaluat- ing teachers, working to implement PEACE CORPS: Hannah (right) is “Seeds got a radio program for grades 1-7 that supplements the Ministry’s curricu- working on rural education projects a hold of in Zambia. me, and lum, starting a youth group, trying to allowed me raise money to get books for a library to be more and renovate an existing library or spend their careers doing work in indepen- structure, training women’s groups in development need to see their time, dent and savings & credit and business man- energy, and finances as investments, more of a agement, and more. with development and social change leader than She writes: “As I look forward, I in- as the “profit” of our work. creasingly think that my next step will “Though business school and a fo- a follower.” be business school—trying to think cus on income generation may seem —Doug about ways to make development miles away from my 15 year old self (Portland, more of an investment and less char- at Seeds of Peace, I know and feel Maine) ity, or aid. People who give money the link each day.” Allison Vise (Washington, DC) ALLISON (2005) was RECOGNIZED for her work in Seeds of Peace and other organizations by the Princeton University Prize in Race Relations. The prize aims to “promote harmony, understanding, and respect among people of different races by identify- ing and recognizing high school age students whose efforts have had a significant, positive effect on race relations in their schools or communities.”

nominate a Seed in the Lead PHOTO CREDITS: AHMED HELAL, HANNAH LANTOS, [email protected] AlliSON VISE

8 The Olive Branch Fall 2008 Doug Alston (Portland, Maine) By Jay Cohen (Boston) “I used to be very quiet,” says Doug Alston, a Maine Seed who attended Camp third session 2003 and second session 2005. “But Seeds got a hold of me, and allowed me to be more independent and more of a leader than a follower.” For Alston and the Cheverus High School basketball team, those leadership skills translated into a Maine state championship this past winter. The senior point guard guided his squad to victory in a major upset of defending champions Bangor, who had come into the matchup riding a 31-game win streak. Leadership is central to the way Alston plays basketball. At the point, Alston is the team’s general on the court. Earlier in the season he had been moved to shooting guard, but the position just didn’t feel right. “I looked very uncomfortable on the court,” Alston said. “I’m used to controlling the tempo.” After switching back to point guard, Alston was able to once again direct his team’s play on both offense and defense, and use the voice he says he gained from attending Camp. Cheverus got off to an extremely fast start to the season, winning its first 14 games. But a three-game losing streak close to the start of the playoffs put the great season in jeop- ardy. The Stags were able to rebound in their final regular season game before defeating Windham, Portland, and Thornton Academy in the playoffs to reach the state finals. However, after leading his team all season, Alston hurt his ankle in Cheverus’s regional final victory and was struggling to regain his fitness in time for the championship game. But when snow pushed the game back, providing him with a few extra days of rest, Alston knew that he had to take the opportunity. Cheverus over- came a 10-point deficit in the 48-43 win, and it was Alston’s three-pointer midway through the fourth quarter that gave his team the lead for good. Alston will most likely continue his basketball career next year for Guil- ford College in North Carolina. With him, he will bring the leadership skills he has developed at Camp and on the court.

COURT LEADERSHIP: Doug (with basketball) helped his high school team win the Maine state championship title this year.

PHOTO CREDIT: © CHRIS GRIFFITH, GREATMOOSE.COM

The Olive Branch Fall 2008 9 LOOKING AHEAD FOUR JERUSALEM SEEDS SEARCH FOR SOLUTIONS IN THE CONTESTED CITY

PHOTO CREDITS: ERIC KAPENGA, ORON MICHAELI

10 The Olive Branch Fall 2008 HE ISSUE OF Jerusalem is no erusalem is still a divided doubt one of the toughest parts of city. It has two different people negotiations over a future peace with different cultures, who live on agreement, mainly due to the fact different sides of the city. that it involves religious, national, The Israeli government, which Tdemographic and economic considerations. Jsays the city is united, makes the separation Personally, as an Israeli, I believe that every even more clear by building houses for its territorial relinquishment is not easy. citizens while demolishing those of Palestin- However, I believe, with all my heart, that ians. While Jews from around the world are every nation deserves to have its own sovereignty. Jewish his- invited to live in Jerusalem, my Palestinian relatives and friends tory led me to believe this is the only solution, even if it is not a from places like Ramallah (10 km away) and Bethlehem (5 km) perfect one. are not allowed to even visit. Therefore, with the two-state solution as a starting point, I’ve Palestinian residents of the city have suffered great injustice. tried to find a solution that on the one hand gives every person Many have lost their land in the city, including my family. In 1968, the option to be part of the country he or she identifies with, after East Jerusalem was occupied by the Israeli army, my father’s and on the other hand results in the evacuation of the lowest land was confiscated on the basis that it was needed for military possible number of people from their homes. training. It had been inherited from my grandfather, and he had I acknowledge that as an inhabitant of Jerusalem, I do not re- hoped to build homes on it for us. ally recognize many of the Arab neighborhoods as a real part of In 1992 my father appealed to the High Court, since the gov- “my” city—I barely go there. Some Israelis might question this, ernment had not used the land for any purpose. He won the case but they will probably agree that it hurts Israel to define these with three judges sitting, but lost the case on appeal with seven neighborhoods as parts of Jerusalem. Economically, Israel is ob- judges. Sixteen years later (and 40 years after the confiscation) ligated to provide the inhabitants of East Jerusalem with the land is still not used for anything.

CONTINUED: SEE AMOS, PAGE 13 CONTINUED: SEE HIBA, PAGE 13

The Olive Branch Fall 2008 11 live in a city often filled he holiest place in with religious tolerance. A city Jerusalem is the Old City: holy which wakes up every morning to in Judaism because of the West- the wonderful ringing of church bells ern Wall, in Christianity for the and the voice of a dozen minarets. Church of the Holy Sepulcher, IEvery day I go to Saint George’s School. andT in Islam for the Al-Aqsa Mosque and Even though I am Muslim, and my school Dome of the Rock. The location of the is obviously Christian, I feel at home. I last two is also a religious site for Jews, love my city as if it were the blood that is flowing through because the Temple was once located there. my body or the oxygen that I breathe. This has been a cause of much tension between Jews & But there are difficulties. There is racism between Arabs Muslims, and the broader conflict affects it very badly. and Jews throughout the city, and Palestinians do suffer. I believe that every person has the right to pray at her For example, if a Palestinian father wants to build a home, holy site. Right now, this is not happening. The conflict is on his own land, he is most often unable to obtain a con- hurting this right. Jews can’t pray near the Dome of the struction permit from the Israeli authorities. If somehow Rock, and Muslims have many restrictions. he is able to get one, he often isn’t allowed to build more As a person who lives in Jerusalem, this really disturbs than three floors. It is painful for me to see a three-story me. Arab building with a ten-story Israeli building behind it. I’m very realistic—I know that chances of the conflict be- And if he is not able to obtain a permit, and builds anyway, ing solved soon are very low. But let us think how beautiful the Israeli authorities will demolish the house. it would be if it were. If we are smart enough to under- We are also losing homes which we inherited from our stand and respect each other, maybe someday we’ll all have ancestors to armed Jewish settlers, who come and live the right to pray where and when we want to. there instead. The Israeli government continues to build “Don’t be afraid to see someone who is the complete op- the Wall that separates Jerusalem from other Palestinian posite of your opinion and think that you could make peace cities and prevents Palestinians from visiting their rela- with him. This is the main idea of peace: to try very hard to tives here or praying at the religious sites like the Al-Aqsa have peace between two opposites.” Mosque. And Israel continues to build new settlements — Rabbi Nachman around Jerusalem, and expand old ones. When I think about the future of Jerusalem, I don’t ex- pect there to be a quick, fair solution. In the end I just wish that the Palestinian dream will be reached. I wish to see ► Tzuf every Palestinian from the West Bank and Gaza Strip able to come and pray at the Al-Aqsa Mosque or the Church of the Holy Sepulcher in peace with their fellow Jerusalem- ites whenever they want. ► Mahmoud

Al-Aqsa Mosque Church of the Holy Sepulcher

12 The Olive Branch Fall 2008 AMOS, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11 would rule the areas around the holy sites. For example, even if the Western Wall is ruled by the Jewish part of the medical treatment and other social benefits. And since committee, and the Al-Aqsa Mosque by the Muslim part, Palestinians who live in East Jerusalem have the Israeli who would rule the areas surrounding these sites? identity card, and are therefore able to move freely within Our Seeds of Peace dialogue sessions never yielded a the city and Israel entirely, it is much easier for the radicals document which contained a breakthrough solution; the among them to attack Israelis. For instance, all four attacks disputes between us have been the same ones that keep our in Jerusalem this year have been committed by Palestinian greatest politicians busy. inhabitants of Arab neighborhoods in Jerusalem. I believe that if we keep trying, even this issue, which is I do not agree with those who claim that a division of Je- probably the toughest, will be solved sooner or later. rusalem is, in fact, a betrayal of our ancestors, who prayed Moshe Dayan, an Israeli military leader, said that “If you for an eternity to re-build the city. In fact, most of the Arab want to make peace, you don’t talk to your friends. You neighborhoods now defined as Jerusalem were not even talk to your enemies.” called Jerusalem before the 1967 Six-Day War. Personally, I am certain that if these enemies become This issue is not the problem it seems to be; including friends, peace will be much easier to make. Arab neighborhoods in the future Palestinian state does not, in fact, hurt the completeness and unity of Jerusalem. ► Amos A reasonable solution could thus be the separation of Je- rusalem on a national basis, meaning Arab neighborhoods HIBA, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11 go to the Palestinian state, while Jewish neighborhoods stay an integral part of the State of Israel. I think that sharing Jerusalem would be the fairest solu- Some object to this solution, arguing that if Arab neigh- tion, since Jews also have a religious connection to the borhoods in Jerusalem were not ruled by Israel, many city. However, I do not think that Israel should claim it parts of Israel would be threatened by Palestinian rockets. as its capital. Freedom of access to different parts of the However, the scenario under discussion is not dividing city should be allowed. No one party should be in charge Jerusalem as a unilateral act, but as a part of a true peace of the entire city. Rather, it should be shared by creating agreement. This is therefore not a relevant problem: if one united police force, and one united municipality. This rockets are launched towards Israel, a peace agreement needs to be done without forgetting the right of each side will not be signed. to make independent political decisions. This solution is, however, lacking because it does not ad- The holy places should not be divided on the basis of dress the issue of holy sites, which is one of the central religion, especially since there are certain places that are pillars of the Israeli-Palestinians conflict. One proposal is shared by two religions. Instead, these sites should be un- that a multi-religious committee should be established to der the control of the united police force and municipality. supervise every holy site in Israel and the future Palestinian Unless a solution is found, the issue of Jerusalem will state. continue to be one of the main reasons for the Arab-Israeli There are a few problems with this, such as which side conflict. ► Hiba Western Wall

The Olive Branch Fall 2008 13 Camp 2008

BACK AGAIN: Once campers, now staff, Seeds are playing an increasingly important role helping new Seeds. Next generation counselors Older Seeds return to Maine to run Camp

One day you’ll be sense. Seeds of to the weather, but also emotionally running this camp,” said Peace creates these to what lay ahead of us. Seeds of Peace founder John impossible situations. My main concern was, “will I be Wallach, many times. And I That is, it creates any good—will I be able to give the believed him. absurd situations same support I received from my Seeds are not yet running the place which could never counselors years ago?” “all by themselves: non-Seeds are still take place in the I had to deal with tough question the core of the staff, bringing their Eldad ordinary world. asked by brilliant teenagers. Some of vast experience and heart to Camp. (Kiryat Gat) Take for instance them about my identity, some about But slowly, former campers are the following: A 24- history, others about my opinions. becoming an important part. They year-old Israeli counselor has to make But what they all had in common bring perspectives that only they can sure his young campers—among was that they were all questions of have. They feel the crazy collage of them Palestinians from refugee legitimacy—the legitimacy of me as emotions that only a former camper camps—drink at least four cups of their counselor. can feel: solidarity, anger, fear, love, water per meal and finish all the peas In the end, my fears were turned excitement, frustration, affection and on their plates. aside as they taught me an important confusion. All in a concentrated dose. If the reader of these lines is a Seed, lesson in acceptance: with time, Only in an alternate universe called they know this is pretty normal. patience and sensitivity, people accept “camp” can one grasp certain realities. We got to Camp about a week early, people for what they are deep inside. Only there do they make perfect giving us time to acclimate, not only

PHOTO CREDITS (CLOCKWISE, TOP LEFT): BOBBIE GOTTSCHALK, BOBBIE GOTTSCHALK, SARAH BIGNEY 14 The Olive Branch Fall 2008 HUMMUS SONG COMPOSER: Ahmad (right) with his dining hall table. Ahmad returned for a second summer as a counselor in 2008. Seeds take on new role as counselors at Camp NE of the most ILy hair, a beyond- vivid memories from my smelly blue shirt, and an first year at Camp in utter sense of comple- 2001 is that of our last tion are my last clear Onight together as a bunk. Omemories of my job as United Bunk 17 (“The Boom-Boom a counselor this past summer at Seeds Room”) decided to of Peace. steal some canoes The inevitable just before dawn and lack of showers was paddle to the creek something I had an- on the opposite shore ticipated: my mother of Pleasant Lake. I tried to throw out remember looking everything I brought Loizos around and thinking Devon home after my time (Nicosia) how much I would (Dallas) as an American miss everyone there, camper in 2004. that this was one of those once-in- What I had not expected my second a-lifetime moments that I’d always time around was the sense of fulfill- remember. ment, coupled with the same questions I had a chance to repeat my once-in- and confusion I felt leaving Camp in ’04. a-lifetime moment last summer, but As a camper, I came to Seeds believ- this time with a twist. As one of the ing I was well-versed on the Middle counselors organizing the little trip, I East conflict and was ready to bring found out that our bunk night in 2001 peace to a situation I thought I had all was not as impromptu as it looked—it figured out. I left with the realization I seems that everyone from Camp Direc- knew next to nothing. tor Tim to the doctor knew about it. Unsure of my role, use, and overall The planning and preparation that feelings towards the experience that had to be done took nothing away forever changed my life, I went home from the experience, however. As I an emotional wreck to grapple with was paddling to lineup with UB 17 and try to answer these questions. I L’ARTISTE: Eldad shows off his (“The International Brothers”) I tried to stay in touch with my brush skills while introducing Camp activities to 2007 Seeds. CONTINUED: SEE LOIZOS, PAGE 17 CONTINUED: SEE DEVON, PAGE 17

The Olive Branch Fall 2008 15 Camp 2008 (continued)

FACE OFF: Ahmad (front), along with other Seeds turned counselors, compete in a rope tug during staff Color Games.

Rose & Thorn” is a game & Thorn” until the first evening in the I was proud to pass on this ritual of that my bunk counselors taught bunk with the campers this summer. reflection, an exercise that represents us when I was a camper in 2004. We had taken care of all the night’s an essential part of my experience at “Before we went to sleep, each person logistics, the campers were tired out Seeds of Peace. Each day there, camp- in the bunk gave ac- from traveling, and we three first- ers and counselors alike are engaged count of the best and time counselors were faced with a physically as well as mentally. It is at worst parts of his question: “What do we do now?” once a challenge and a joy to balance day (the rose and the At that moment, “Rose & Thorn” the physically-taxing elements, like thorn, respectively). came into my mind, along with a Steal the Bacon, with the mentally- It was the only mo- vivid recollection of how useful that taxing ones, like Dialogue. ment of each day time of reflection was for me as a As a camper and as a counselor camper. I quietly suggested it to my this summer, I find that striking this Leo when the otherwise- (New York) rambunctious and co-counselors, they approved, and balance is an exhausting endeavor, loud bunk environ- we tried it. such that by day’s end, and after a ment became quiet and respectful, This summer, not a single night quiet round of “Rose & Thorn,” I feel marked by collective reflection. passed in our bunk without listening healthier than I have in a long time Since 2004, I hadn’t thought of “Rose to each other’s roses and thorns. and ready to fall asleep.

started my journey with of happiness and I also wrote a song called “The Hum- Seeds of Peace four years ago. As couldn’t believe my- mus Song.” Everyone loved it. People part of the Palestinian delegation self for a moment. started singing it all the time: around in 2004, I headed to Camp de- I soon began to Camp, in the dining hall, in the bunk. termined to represent Palestine, realize what it truly It was everywhere! Ito talk to other people from different feels like to be a I tried my best to remain close to my parts of the world and understand counselor. I felt the campers, especially since I had been in their opinions and backgrounds, to Ahmad love and the trust as their shoes. (And I have to point out make a change and communicate. (Ramallah) a counselor. I tried here how great it was working with Waking up in a bunk full of differ- to help the campers people who were my counselors four ent people with different cultures, as much as I could, giving them their years ago.) languages, backgrounds, and lifestyles own space to think about themselves After experiencing all these different was a whole new experience in itself. and discover something unique inside positions at Camp, I realize what it Last summer, I applied and was each one of them that will motivate truly feels like to be part of the Seeds accepted as a counselor—I was full them to learn as much as they can. of Peace realm, and how special it is.

PHOTO CREDITS: SARAH BIGNEY 16 The Olive Branch Fall 2008 LOIZOS, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15 looked around and thought about how much I’d miss them all. In retrospect, my canoe ride with the bunk captures my whole summer experience at Camp. Going back to Otisfield as a counselor reveals the massive effort that goes into creating the camp experience—from the kitchen, to the ropes course, to the infirmary. Knowing how things work takes none of the magic away. The butter- flies still fly in your stomach on the first day of Camp, flag-raising is still difficult, the Sea Dogs baseball team still lose all their games, Casco lemon- ade is always fresh, and Color Games is still the best part of Camp. And on top of that, there’s still a lot to learn from everyone around you—campers and counselors alike. Being able to stay behind after all the buses are gone and everything turns quiet again, revealed to me the es- sence of Camp: that Seeds of Peace is not the bunk-line by the lake; it is the people who wear the green shirts. Camp magic exists because of them.

DEVON, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15 friends and work with Seeds outside of Camp—anything to get closer to what I thought would answer my questions. While Seeds became a motivating force in other aspects of my life, I remained ill-at-ease and moved from one interest to the next, trying to do as much as I could to find the same sense of inner-calm I found at Camp. BACK IN GREEN: Eldad (top, on right) belays a Seed high off the ground. However, questions remained Below, more counselors in 2007 who were once themselves campers. unanswered, and these feelings un- back to the inner peace I had desper- on to different parts of our lives the founded until the last day of my job ately sought the past four years. I felt day we left, not needing to look back. this summer, when I had the opportu- like I had finally started and finished Conflicts would rage on because nity to address the entire Camp after something from start to end, and I every side is sure of themselves and coaching the Blue Team during Color could see the fruits of my labor right the others around them. We wouldn’t Games. in front of me. question our own surroundings or I had not planned what I was going I’m just as confused as I was four actions in regard to others—a very to say or had even truly reflected on years ago. I think one of the amazing dangerous thing especially when it the amazing experience of coaching. qualities about a Seeds experience is involves human suffering and the But standing next to the bonfire and the unsettling feeling it leaves you ongoing struggles we face in our daily looking at all the kids who had come with. If we all left resolute and sure of lives. off a bus just three weeks ago appre- our friends, our enemies, and our- After being a counselor this sum- hensive and unsure—and now seeing selves, no one would come back to mer, I have learned to recognize the them hugging and crying, feeling like Camp, or go to seminars to seek out necessity of this uncertainty, and will I had a part in bringing some of them past friends or unresolved issues. Dia- use it to pursue my passions and goals together, and forming friendships logue would never improve or change in life. Who knows—maybe as a with many of them—brought me as time passed, as we would all move counselor again in 2009.

The Olive Branch Fall 2008 17 Dialogue

Using dialogue & film to break down barriers

Two Seeds participate in Peace it Together’s program to empower young Israeli, Palestinian & Canadian leaders through film-making. had the opportunity to situations in which bombers, and how these affect their work with young people from both sides live. daily life—how they can’t ride buses the other side of the Palestin- The Palestinians or do normal things that most other ian-Israeli conflict this summer focused on suffering people in this world can. at Peace it Together’s camp from the Separa- The dialogue process imposed re- onI Bowen Island, near Vancouver, tion Wall and Israeli spect by giving every side the free- Canada. Ten Israelis, 10 Palestinians, checkpoints located dom to speak. Everyone had to listen and 10 Canadians came together, Mahmoud inside the Palestin- to the other side completely, before each with his or her own opinions (Hebron) ian territories, and they had the right to ask questions about the other side—opinions based shared their personal and comment. mostly on the information received experiences about how the Wall At first it seemed hard for both sides through the media. separates their lands and their life to keep listening, because you could The first week involved tough dia- and how they feel humiliated at the only speak when the other person logue between the Palestinians and checkpoints. was done. But day by day, we become Israelis. Each side tried to present the The Israeli participants spoke about more aware of the importance of other as the guilty party, sharing very their suffering from the Qassam rock- emotional stories about the difficult ets fired from Gaza and the suicide discover more online PHOTO CREDITS: AVI GOLDSTEIN, Amber Houssian www.peaceittogether.ca 18 The Olive Branch Fall 2008 CAMERA MAN: Shadi, an Israeli Seed, films a scene for “Heaven Forbid.” t first, the dialogue and that would be balanced to both sessions were not that hard, sides. Abecause no one wanted to Our film, called “Heaven Forbid,” is hurt anyone’s feelings. But as we got a drama about two girls that meet on deeper and deeper an island after escaping a drowning into the history of death. Neither one has any memories the conflict, people about their past. They become friends started to open up discovering the island together, until and talk about the at the peak of their relationship, they way they see the begin to recall their past: one of conflict and their them is Palestinian, the other Israeli. Shadi real thoughts about They meet on the beach, facing each (Tira) the other side. other, and the film ends with a final After dialogue, flashback of them at the Separation we started making movies. First we Wall, one as an Israeli soldier holding learned about different types of film. a gun, the other as a Palestinian Using dialogue & film Then we were separated into three- holding a rock. or four-member groups that included We had great communication within all nationalities. My group decided the group, and I think the result was to break down barriers to create a story connected to the very good. After completing shooting conflict that would represent all of and editing, we screened the film for our thoughts and feelings about it, 500 people in Vancouver.

FILMMAKERS: Palestinian Seed Mahmoud learns about making in its film. The moment inspired Majd tant and something that is ignored movies with an Israeli & a Canadian. (a Palestinian participant) who contin- by many people, which is that our ued to be inspired by Avner. common humanity is the main link this process—how important it is to As we ate together, laughed together between us. It is therefore possible to listen and feel what other participants and thought about each other, the break the fear and boundaries which have to say—which in turn helped us human connections became stron- were created inside us. Fear that is realize how similar our connections, ger than any other feelings, and we the result of what the media shows us dreams, hopes and problems are. started to understand one another or what people who do not represent We spent the second and third more and more. the majority of our societies do. weeks learning how to make films. Each side found the other to be Respect, listening and understand- Israelis, Palestinians and Canadians normal people who want to live and ing are the principles that we took worked together in small groups to be part of the democratic nations. back home with us. These are not based on the subject of their film. At some point, both sides found they easy concepts, but they will stay with It was the start of having one goal. had the same needs—both want to us forever as tools to improve com- The groups were like a small fam- feel safe. munication between Palestinians and ily; people started caring about each We also found that the image the Israelis. other. media presents about the other side We will be showing the films that It was also very emotional. At one was not reflected at camp. Instead, we made to our communities, each point, Avner (an Israeli participant) we discovered that all of us teenagers one of us in his own way, improving requested that his group adjust focus have very similar dreams and wishes. ourselves as young leaders who are and show more about Palestinian life This leads to something impor- Cwillingarpenter to fight for peace.in Herat. The Olive Branch Fall 2008 19 Where are they now? THESEEDS film

Ever wonder what happens to Seeds after Camp? We find out where people from ’02 & ’03 who appeared in the SEEDS documentary are now. PHOTO CREDITS: Parisa Taghizadeh, BOBBIE GOTTSCHALK, Yana Gorskaya

Koby (Tel-Aviv) I graduated from Yale in 2006, after which I decided to travel around the world a bit to clear my head. I then joined McKinsey & Co. in New York City. I am still very much involved with SOP, helping out with fund-raising & programming in the US, and am still in touch with many of my Seeds friends. Seeds of Peace still holds a special place in my life. Zaqloub (Bethlehem) I graduated from Earlham College with a degree in Economics. During the summers I returned to Camp as a counselor. I returned home in 2004 to work for Seeds of Peace full-time as the Palestinian Program Coordinator in Ramallah. I just finished my MBA from the University of Chicago, and am working in New York City.

Teju (Mumbai) After my brilliant Camp experience, I went on to finish school. I am currently in my 3rd year of a Fine Arts program, specializing in painting & having the time of my life. I hope to do my Mas- ters in graphic design, and work in the same field. SOP has remained an important part of my life all these years, and I’m sure it will continue to do so.

Sami (Abu Ghosh) I worked for SOP in 2005, helping with a media project for younger Seeds. I received my degree in Biol- ogy from the Hebrew University. I also picked up a degree in Musicology (and still play the piano). I’m currently doing medical research, in parallel with an engineering program, and in anticipation of a PhD in Biotechnology.

20 The Olive Branch Fall 2008 Adir (Ashqelon) After my military service as a produc- er & editor with army radio, I became involved in areas related to society, politics & media, and am now the spokesperson for the Tel Aviv Universi- ty Student Union. I’m still involved with coexistence programs, and recently went to Jordan with the Geneva Initia- tive to dialogue with Palestinians.

Tamer (Cairo) After Camp, I worked at the Carn- egie Endowment for International Peace, where I conducted research on promoting democracy & rule of law in the Middle East. I then received a law degree and Masters in International

PHOTO CREDITS: Parisa Taghizadeh, BOBBIE GOTTSCHALK, Yana Gorskaya Politics from American University. I’m now married and living in Washington, DC, where I’m an attorney.

Ariel (Givon Hahadasha) Since 2003, I managed to finish high school, served in the army for three years, and traveled around Central America, New York and finally India. These days the only thing I do is study computer engineering and phys- ics at the Hebrew University in Jerusa- lem (and look forward to vacations to come).

Areen (Haifa) Right after my high school gradua- tion, I started my undergraduate studies in Occupational Therapy. Thankfully, I managed to graduate, and I’m currently a certified occupational therapist working with disabled children.

Tareq (Jatt) I participated in various SOP activities up until 2005, when I started working as a program coordinator for newer Seeds. I’m now studying medicine at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem (in fact, I’m writing this while studying for the final exams of my fourth year). I’ll be done with my studies by 2010, at which point I will be a doctor.

Marj & Joe (the filmmakers) Since shooting SEEDS, Marj Safinia Sebastian. He now works producing moved to Los Angeles, got married reality shows for the Discovery Net- and is now busy working on several works. new documentary projects. She con- The SEEDS DVD is currently avail- tinues to be involved with SEEDS, and able for purchase by schools, colleges thanks to Facebook, with many of the and community groups. Visit www. subjects of the movie! mergemedia.tv for more information, Joe Boyle also got married, and is and if you’d like to reach Marj or Joe, now the father to a beautiful baby boy, e-mail [email protected].

The Olive Branch Fall 2008 21 GAZA CITY Through the Lens of Gaza’s Seeds Photos by Homam, Ola & Aya

SKYLINE: Gaza City’s many apartment blocks. “It’s is one of the most heavily populated places in the world” (Aya).

CANDLELIGHT PROTEST: “Children demonstrate against electricty cuts by Israel” (Ola).

UNIVERSITY STREET: “I think Gaza is a beautiful place” (Aya).

22 The Olive Branch Fall 2008 BEACH: A man plays near the Gaza seaport. “The sea always makes me think of freedom” (Homam).

EMPTY: A street is car-less due to fuel shortages. “Gaza in this period is like a city without a soul. As you walk in the streets, it’s as if there is no population” (Ola).

The Olive Branch Fall 2008 23 India-Pakistan Homestays

LAHORE: In August, 18 Indian Seeds and seven Indian Delegation Leaders were hosted by their Pakistani counterparts families in Lahore for a week of dialogue, workshops and sightseeing. Indian Seeds visit Pakistan Camp friends get rare opportunity to cross border, meet families

he India-Pakistan s the green shirts Homestays Program takes made their appearances place almost every year. at the airport, screams One year Indian Seeds visit of excitement ended the TPakistan, and the next year A.silence. Everyone was Pakistani Seeds travel to India. The overwhelmed with joy, delighted point is for Seeds to see the “other to see the friends they had made at side” for a week and Camp. live with the families I introduced my of the friends they family to Rayan, my made at Camp and Indian guest, and we experience their made for home and culture. dinner together. This After a lot of hard was followed by a work and convinc- long series of discus- Rayan Zain (Mumbai) ing, most of us got (Lahore) sions between him permission from our and my family. We schools, colleges, and parents, and in had much more to share, but eventu- REUNITED: Rayan & Zain at the August, 18 very excited Indian teen- border between India & Pakistan. ally we had to sleep since we had to agers were on their way to Pakistan. wake up early the next morning. We were welcomed by loud cheers and I can easily say that they were one The Homestays now seems like a and warm hugs from our Pakistani of the nicest families I’ve ever come sweet dream, so short and so delight- friends. across. ful. In the guise of sharing good mo- I had the pleasure of living with Zain. Homestays was a memorable experi- ments, we enhanced our leadership At first I was nervous about how eas- ence, and I am very glad and fortunate qualities and enlightened our minds. ily his family would accept an Indian to have been a part of it. It’s really hard to forget about those living at their house, but on meeting It was truly amazing to experience nights we spent chatting and those them, I realized that I had been ac- the culture and tradition of a Pakistani days we spent laughing. cepted way before I had even arrived. family. I am privileged to have had I believe Homestays truly bridges I had not expected the warmth, love, the opportunity of visiting Pakistan, the gap between Indian and Pakistani and generosity that I received from an opportunity that not many Indians Seeds developed after Camp. them during the course of the trip, have, unfortuneately.

PHOTO CREDITS: PAUL MAILHOT, RAYAN MODI

24 The Olive Branch Fall 2008 here were butter- flies in my stomach the moment the aircraft wheels touched the ground. It was Thard to believe we were finally there—we were finally in Paki- stan! I had been waiting for this day ever since Camp. Seeing my friends again after three years was an emotional moment. Living with them in their homes, gorging Niyati on the famous Lahori (Mumbai) food (yummy), getting to know their culture, way of living and their families was a great experience. We are just the same. I met new people and made new friends. We visited their schools, went sightseeing and shopping together, gossiping and remembering old Camp memories.

SIGHTSEEING: Seeds toured the Old City of Lahore, including the famous he first tremors of Badshahi Mosque, experiencing the city’s rich culture and history. anticipation came only when I saw the familiar as we exited the airport was to turn and turn in a new light. As if it was my faces emerging. It was around, stand still and look at it. “A first time here as well; as if I had never hard to tell or realize that unique blend of culture and modern- really looked at my city. There is rich T culture and centuries of history: Brit- we were meeting them after a gap of ization,” is what she called it. several years. In those five days we tried to achieve ish, Mughal, Sikh, Hindu. Architecture After four unsuc- the impossible: showing someone La- and art abound and the city is beauti- cessful attempts hore in five days. Of course, no one ful at night with its glittering lights. to obtain visas and sees Lahore for what it is in that short The true experience was, without a two-hour flight a period. But we visited Lahore Fort, a doubt, for the Indian guests. We delay, the Indian the Badshahi Mosque, and the Sikh parted at the airport, and now have to Seeds finally arrived. holy site of Gurdwara Panja Sahib. We look forward to next year. Needless to say, we visited cafes, malls and restaurants, Tooba (Lahore) welcomed each other which (if I’m reading the reaction cor- uring Homestays, screaming, shouting, rectly) the Indians quite enjoyed. the Indian & Pakistani and hugging, drawing the attention of The visit to Wagah Border between Seeds met to watch quite a few people waiting at the ar- India & Pakistan and the daily flag rais- a film about Parti- rivals terminal. ing and lowering ceremonies deserves tion. After the movie, Homestays at last! special mention. On one side is La- D Indian educators had a question & Arriving home and staying up till hore, on the other side is Amritsar, In- answer session with about 3:30 a.m., I already knew we dia. There was excitement and a kind Seeds, followed by a were going to be late the next day. of disturbance as well, a rare clash seminar with older Turned out that everyone else was late of patriotism and irony. Here were Pakistani Seeds. They as well. Indian Seeds, standing on the ‘enemy’ asked us all to list In a short span of about five days we side and watching their own people the historical events attended a day-long workshop, gave sitting but a few yards away, hearing taught in our respec- school presentations, and did all the them cheer for India and yet not being Sana tive history books. other things that we were scheduled a part of them. (Lahore) They are now plan- to do. But an integral part of the “It’s like realizing what we’re really ning to publish both Homestays program was to show our up against,” said one Indian Seed. versions in one book, side by side, for friends from across the border our By the first ride back home in my car the public of both countries to know city. with my Indian guest, I had already what the other side thinks of the same The first thing one of my friends did begun to look at every familiar road event.

The Olive Branch Fall 2008 25 Homestays (continued)

PLANTING TREES: Indian & Pakistani Seeds plant a tree at the Lahore Grammar School after making a presentation about Seeds of Peace and taking questions from the school’s students.

he second our plane Pakistani side, but we could see all No one slept that night; we were all landed in Lahore, to the the Indians cheering just across the busy catching up with each other. annoyance of our fellow border. It felt a little strange not being The whole of the next day was a passengers, we all began able to cheer along with them. workshop, where we met a lot of Tscreaming and shouting— What I saw that week, was that no Pakistani Seeds from different years, we were finally in Pakistan! matter what the media made out the saw a film on Partition and engaged in We raced our way ‘conflict’ to be, on an individual level, various activities. One of the days we through baggage there was absolutely no bitterness. also had a mini-Color Games of our claim, customs and When people found out that I was an own. foreign exchange, Indian, I can almost say they were ex- When it comes to the city, Lahore until we finally got tra nice, maybe trying to show me that is very pretty, with houses and vast to meet the Paki- they felt no hatred towards us. open lands. We went to the Wagah stani Seeds, who we Border one day, which actually was hadn’t seen since markedly ironic for us Indians, as we Jahnvi (Mumbai) Camp. Many hugs s expected, the trip were going to see the border for the and shrieks later, we to Lahore was amazing. Af- first time—but from the other side. I set off for our host family’s home. ter all the depression of not cannot describe our feelings when we The following week was one which receiving visas at first, we saw our flag and Indians sitting just a no one will forget. Workshops, sight- .couldn’t believe that we few yards away from us. We felt like seeing, school presentations, tree A opening all the gates and cutting the were going to Pakistan until we finally planting and of course, shopping! landed. We all actually barbed wire which marks the Line of We also went to the Wagah Border. started clapping and Control. The Border was really different from gasping, “Oh my God! It was an experience we will cherish what I had imagined it to be. I ex- Oh my God, I can’t forever. pected a barren, deserted area with believe it!” as soon as Then the day came when we had to some kind of large, heavily-guarded we landed on Paki- leave. People were choking back tears wall between the two countries. I was stani soil. It seemed and passing around gifts at the airport, surprised to instead see green fields Spruha surreal—until we bidding goodbye with big hugs. The and crowds of people. At places, the (Mumbai) rushed into the arms only consolation for a few of us is that border was just a fence with barbed of our friends who we are going to see some of them the wire on top. We were sitting on the were waiting eagerly to receive us. next year in our city, Mumbai.

PHOTO CREDIT: PAUL MAILHOT 26 The Olive Branch Fall 2008 The Interview Steve Kerr

the 5- time NBA champion & current Phoenix Suns President & GM talks to Iman Azzi (Cairo) about his family’s ties to the Middle East & using basketball to bring together youth from areas of conflict ››››

PHOTO CREDIT: Nathaniel S. Butler/GETTY IMAGES The Olive Branch Fall 2008 27 28 “That’s why Seeds of Peace is so important—you go over and play basketball with someone and realize they’re pretty much like you.”

PeacePlayers International PeacePlayers International (PPI) is a lot like community involvement to ensure long-term Seeds of Peace, only without the bunks in sustainability. Maine and a sole focus on basketball as a tool From Ireland, PPI moved to South Africa for bridging divides. The organization’s core (where coaches also incorporate a life skills principle is that “children who play together program teaching players about the dangers can learn to live together.” of HIV/AIDS), Israel/Palestine and Cyprus. PPI was founded in 2001 by Sean Tuohey, Following Hurricane Katrina, which tore who moved to Ireland after college and wound through many southern US states, PPI up coaching Protestant and Catholic children. opened a program in New Orleans in 2007, In doing so, he realized the role sports can seeking to use basketball to assist in the trans- play to get youth to learn about others. With formation, education and unification of the the help of his younger brother, Brendan, and city hardest hit in the storm. $6,000, PeacePlayers International was born. Since its inception, the organization has PPI’s four main goals are to bridge social di- impacted over 45,000 youth. vides, develop future leaders, educate children to lead healthy, constructive lives, and build — Iman Azzi

PHOTO CREDIT: PHOENIX SUNS ’The Olive Branch Fall 2008 29 In memoriam Mehzabeen Aleigh Mills Omar Sherein Palgharwala Bunk 8 (III) 2003 Bunk 12 (i) 2006 Bunk 5 (i) 2004 Bunk 9 (III) 2004 Cairo Mumbai Wayne, Maine Omar was killed in a car Mehzabeen was killed in a car Aleigh was killed accident on April 7th, 2007. accident on March 26th, 2008. on July 10th, 2007.

Omar was in my Dialogue Group at I would not say that Mehzabeen Aleigh will always be remembered Camp. He almost always had a smile lived life; I’d say that life had the for her loving and caring nature. on his face, and when we a needed a privilege of ‘living’ in her. Meju Aleigh was happy whenever group effort, he was always a leader, stood for energy, enthusiasm and her friends were happy and pushing us forward, fighting for his excitement. — Shaili (Mumbai) did everything in her power to principles. guarantee that a smile was never Omar talked about what he To me, she wasn’t an Indian Seed. out of reach. She truly had a way believed—he was true to himself, She was a very special friend. about her, unlike anyone else. even when the dialogue sessions got — Neeta (Lahore) Her friendliness and outgoing tough. That was one of the reasons I personality provided her with the respected him so much. I remember once bumping into special ability of giving a little piece — Dana (Mazkeret Batya) her on the road in the rain—both of herself to everyone she met. of us were happily getting wet and Anyone who knew her can We were bunk neighbors, we were enjoying the Bombay monsoon. remember her ability to make people teammates on FC SOP, and on the — Friyana (Mumbai) laugh, generally during times when winning Green Team for Color it was inappropriate. For example, Games. Mehzabeen: the smiling beauty of at meetings she’d always be sure to He was funny & supportive—just Seeds of Peace. make a clever comment that would such a good person. In Dialogue, we — Akruti (Mumbai) have everyone desperately trying to talk about war in our country, but hold in their laughter. here is a sad story about the war in While most people tend to focus This space isn’t nearly big enough the streets. on the negativities of life, she didn’t, to describe the joy Aleigh brought to We hear about so many deaths on and that’s honestly quite a feat. our lives. Although she is not with us the roads in any country, and I am — Ayyaz (Lahore) physically, her soul undoubtedly lives sad that a good friend was killed in a on and will never be forgotten. I am car crash. Loveliness we’ve lost, these empty honored to have known her so well. — Ariel (Zor Yigal) days without your smile. She taught her friends the value of — Nazaqat (Mumbai) true friendship and appreciating life, and for that we are forever thankful.

PHOTO CREDITS: BOBBIE GOTTSCHALK, NAZAQAT LAL, KATHRYN BISPHAM — Natasha (Portland, Maine)

30 The Olive Branch Fall 2008 The Music That We March To

Red hot blood always running through the fire We do not understand that we have the same desire Running and hiding, denying and crying Confronting our own fears takes more courage than flying We’re the same, not in name, but we’re one in the game Only we can choose to lose so we’d rather refrain

And as we walk through the valley of the shadow of death We step side by side to the beat of our breath Tension, relaxation, debate and conversation Our shoulders hold the weight of the “Furat & Achinoam” global people’s nation And we wait for the peace to come, we —Achinoam To respect, not neglect, the silhouette can even see it, (Kiryat Tivon) across the wall But the problem that stops us is that Takes bravery and maturity that our we don’t believe it. parents can’t recall I mean it, because I’ve lived it and I can see it. We’re the next generation and the power is ours I can see it coming because I’m tired So we look to the future building hope of seeing people dying. like steel towers I don’t want to watch the news, Older dissonant undertones serve as a because I’m afraid to see people blatant warning crying. But the music that we march to is dew Crying because their son didn’t come on a cool spring morning back home as promised. We work and toil together, wiping blood, sweat, tears, and grease It’s not a video game, you don’t get the So that our children may live in a world New Game option, founded on peace After Game Over, there is no continuation, — Gus (Cos Cob, Connecticut) There is only suffering and Finding ways to deal with this situation.

No one wants it, we want to stop it now, Do You Believe It? But we don’t know how. So, we hate the other side, thinking it will help, somehow. It’s a constant war; it doesn’t stop. Each side fights back, think it’ll take it It doesn’t make it better, it just make it to the top. worse. So I ask myself, what is the top, It’s easier to get used to it, thinking the “Conflict” To see the other people dead, or your towns that are bombed are not yours, people alive? —Allison but it’s harder to believe it will change. (Washington, DC)

Sometimes we fight so much we forget So, do you believe it? The cause is to make our people safe, Not to make others afraid. — Shani (Ashdod)

The Olive Branch Fall 2008 31

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he T O li B e v ranc • The Youth Magazine of Seeds of Peace Peace of Seeds of Magazine Youth The • H