Debate for Peace

As part of the Writers Matter program, teachers from about twenty schools around Israel wrote and shared their writing together. The following piece is part of the “I Am From” collection, and comes from Julia, from the Darca Begin high school in Gedera.

I am from generations before me, going further back than I know, and still discovering bits of information like hidden treasure.

I am from strong opinionated people, not afraid of following their hearts and minds.

I am from comfort food, celebration food and finish-that-plate-no-matter-what food.

I am from foreign tongues, which still pluck at the heartstrings despite fading away. 

I am from hardship, struggle, ancient hate and subsequent escape. And yet I am also from optimism, positivity, multiculturalism and hope.

I am from a new land, bright, shiny and hopeful, somewhat naive – but sometimes too light.

I am no less from an ancient land, rooted, complicated and beautiful, somewhat cynical –  but sometimes too heavy.

I am from finding that balance, day in and day out.