In the past decades, this land had witnessed violence, war, and tragedy. We were born into state of conflict. We grew up in polarized societies, dominated by strong feelings of resentment, hatred and fear – Decades of violence led our people entrench in fear.
The world is different today.
We no longer want to be bound by the old narrative.
We no longer want to be led by the old generation.
We no longer want to be threatened by fear.
Let us shape our own future, as equals human beings.
The world is different today.
There should be no doubt that both our people, Israelis and Palestinians are strong, determined, and prepared to scarify. But let us scarify not our children rather our historical resentments, feelings and burdens.
Let us use our endless determination for challenging this distorted reality and create a new story.
Writing a short speech in pairs was one of the first activities we were asked to do doing during orientation week. At the beginning I thought it would be difficult finding a common language that Lior, my speech partner, and I would agree upon. I was surprised how well we worked together, how tolerant and attentive to each other we were. People who know me well know that I tend to do things my own way and care more about my narrative, my story. I surprised myself by how much I took into great consideration every comment that Lior had and how comfortable I was when he thought that some of my ideas were not good enough.
We have a long summer ahead of us that will pass by so quickly. I am looking forward to working with Lior and other NSL members.
by Yara Owayyed
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