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Monday, March 25, 2013

Stepping Back... a poem

              Guessing What They Might be Thinking

   Stepping Back

We listened-
listened carefully
confused
by what you want us
to hear see feel think be
stung
by your venom...

We listened-
learned
that we would be framed
and blamed
no matter what

Stepping back
we quietly questioned investments-
time and aid perpetuating
every problem

Stepping back
our thoughts our own.

Stepping back.

Knowing every nation feels
'our' history and future
are more important than 'yours'...

Stepping back.

Disengaged.

Sunday, March 24, 2013

My letter to the NYTimes RE Israel: Bits, Bytes and Bombs

WEST BANK - A masked Palestinian holding a national flag runs past burning tires in the village of Kufr Qaddum during a protest against a nearby Jewish settlement of Qadomim. AP Photo/Nasser Ishtayeh

RE: Israel: Bits, Bytes and Bombs
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/03/24/opinion/sunday/friedman-israel-bits-bytes-and-bombs.html?ref=global&_r=0

Dear Editor,

Knowing how successful Israel has been in winning over mainstream American support and sympathy, it makes sense that Friedman would build an argument for ending the Israel-Palestine conflict around the idea that it is crucial for Israel's well being to help end the Israel-Palestine conflict with all its many negative ramifications.

However I think, from an earnestly pro-Palestine perceptive, a much stronger argument can and should be made that Israel will survive and adapt to changing times no matter what, but right now the prognosis for Palestine is not so good. 

The window closing on a two state solution leaves Israel with a large house featuring many other open windows and doors leading out into pretty gardens, quaint ruins, well funded museums, international airports and plenty of space for savvy loyal empowered Israeli citizens (comfortably ensconced in gated communities) who know how to earn a living in a global economy.... whereas Palestinians will have no jobs, no passports, no security and no escape from Islamists and jihadists' bombs.

Sincerely,
Anne Selden Annab