Tuesday night, May 20, 2003-05-20
Cruising altitude 30,000 ft., ground speed, 504 mph, outside air temperature 47 Fahrenheit, estimated time until destination, 9.5 hours. A quick accounting of our week in Israel recalls a dozen government ministers and representatives, 20+ television network executives, 6 suicide bombers, 15 innocent deaths, and 60+ injured.
It was simultaneously, an extremely successful and horrific week. Had the devastating events of the last three days taken place at home we never would have nor had the opportunity to continue on with our business but, being here (actually 'here' at this moment is several miles off the coast of Istanbul over the Black Sea), is about living life now.
To truly understand the incredible resilience of the Israeli people one has to experience it first hand. This is a nation that responds, remembers and then reacts in such a way as to ensure their culturally rich and vital society remains on-course.
My morning with Shimon Perez served to further enforce this understanding. He spoke of the building of the state of Israel- the miracle of dispersed millions returning to their homeland to create one of the world's most effective democracies in only fifty years. He talked about a society whose children still play in the ancient language of their forefathers. He shared stories from two books he had just completed and we discussed the role of science and technology, in particular nanotechnology as constructive force rather than destructive, and its effect on modern ideology. It was illuminating and inspirational.
Over the steady hum of jet engines I contemplate this resilient land and its incredible diversity, it's many peoples, contradictions and contemporary society, the deserts, shining beaches and beautiful women and the most ancient of history still alive in all of it.
One week in Israel has introduced me to new realities that will affect the paths I choose for the rest of my life.
Perry Gladstone
Posted by pike at May 20, 2003 10:06 PM