Where do I begin. What an incredible two weeks spent in Hebron with the Go Palestine center. I arrived to Hebron late on a Friday night; much later than intended, as my sherut ride from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem to Hebron was delayed. I was a bit concerned - as any traveler might be - about arriving so late at night, alone, in a place very foreign to me. How wrong I was about my reception and safety into Hebron. One of the program directors Mr Tammimi, was waiting for me with a warm hug and a strong welcome. He had waited 4 hours for me, with no real word on my whereabouts, as my phone was only functional when connected to wifi at the airport. He had faith that I would show up, and I was extremely grateful to have received such a warm welcome in the middle of the night. This moment would be reflective of the rest of my experience at the center, and in Hebron. The hospitality within this community is unrivaled. I have had the privilege to live and work in many countries on many continents, and I do believe the level of community care and brotherhood/sisterhood here is unmatched. Not only for foreign travelers, but also between everyday Palestinians.
I believe that for the first 3-4 days I paid for only one or two meals. It was impossible to pay for my own food. Everywhere I went, whether alone or with a local friend, someone was paying the bill before I could figure out how to ask for it. I was told I was not allowed to pay because I am "a guest". I had to actively invite friends out to meals later in my trip, to make sure I was reciprocating the generosity. I think this community norm, leads to great bond building between friends, neighbors, strangers even - gatherings over food, coffee, prayer, and conversation are a major priority. Strangers know strangers and the bonds of friendship represent those of shared blood. This energy is contagious, and spreads like wildfire. The warmth is inescapable.
Within the program specifically, I was elated to learn that the scheduling style and curriculum was strong, while being flexible. I was given my schedule at the start of each week; each day mapped out with great care. I knew where and when to be, and how long each lesson or class would be. I have taught at other schools in other countries and have found that these organizational opportunities are often overlooked, leaving teachers unorganized, stressed out, and unprepared for lessons. The structure was great - and also left room for last minute changes. The flexibility was of great importance to me - and should be for any traveler here. In a place like Hebron, you must expect and prepare for anything at any time. On my walk to and from the center everyday, I would without fail, be stopped by a local shop owner, student, or merchant, who wanted to shake my hand, welcome me to Palestine, and invite me to their home for lunch or dinner. These opportunities should never be passed up; therefore there were many times where I asked the program directors to re arrange my schedule in order for me to meet a new friend for lunch or dinner; or to take a last minute trip to another city etc. The flexibility is key for anyone interested in truly diving headfirst into the beautiful street life and culture of everyday Palestinians. The world is truly at your fingertips here. The program is supportive of your adventures and wants you to explore independently, while also providing a strong backbone; class schedules, great students, Arabic lessons, great sleeping accommodations, breakfast, tea, taxi services; tour guides upon request, and a network of kind Palestinians ready to help you learn, teach, write, photograph, and capture your experience.
Two weeks was incredible, but I wish I had more time here. Inshallah I will return!
What was your funniest moment?
One of my funniest memories in Hebron was an incredible lesson I had with two english students, while sitting around a table eating traditional Palestinian Maqluba. Most of my english lessons and conversation sessions were held in classrooms, but one day, as we were finishing a meal with a few other teachers, two of my students walked in early. We invited them to sit with us; and two hours flew by. Our english lesson was held at that table, as we just engaged in basic natural conversation between native and non native speakers - 6 people in total - working together to communicate with different levels of english and Arabic speaking. I wanted to challenge these students not only linguistically, but philosophically - so we asked a set of siblings - a brother and a sister - to each come up with a few questions they have always wanted to ask their sibling, but have never had the courage, or space to ask. I love getting deep with english conversation topics because when we tip toe into philosophy, religion, love, geopolitics etc; all of the concerns over grammar go out the window. It was safe to say both students asked and answered some incredible questions between each other - but i was pretty hilarious to watch them squirm at the thought of a “family therapy” style moment, in a foreign language, in front of 5 strangers. They knocked it out of the park.
Response from Go Palestine - The Palestinian Center for Cultural Exchange
Thank you so much for your glowing review of your experience with us. We're thrilled to hear that your time at the Palestinian Centre in Hebron was both enriching and memorable.
It's great to know that you found Hebron to be a safe and welcoming place for your studies. Ms. Duaa is indeed an exceptional teacher, and we're delighted that her expertise contributed to your significant progress in Arabic.
We're grateful for your recommendation and hope that more individuals like yourself will seize the opportunity to explore Palestinian culture and language with us.
Thank you once again for choosing us. We wish you continued success in your studies and hope to welcome you back in the future.