Day Off in Jerusalem

The group went to Yad Vashem today. I'm sure it was really moving and learningful, but I simply could not take one more day in the heat. Last time I was here I was also on a study mission and the new museum had just opened. After Yad Vashem, group had free time until dinner. I decided to stay back at the hotel and try and get a reasonable night's sleep. Can't remember if I mentioned this last night, but I had asked for a slightly upgraded room for this part of the trip. They were out of slightly upgraded rooms, so they gave me a mega-upgrade. I am in a two-room suite with a balcony about the size of my living room in Palo Alto with two lounge chairs and a small table and chairs....and it overlooks the old city! I got up late this AM and had a room service breakfast on my balcony. I spent the morning drinking cafe natool (decaf coffee), reading the Jerusalem Post, and enjoying my view. It was really a necessity as neither my body or my brain was prepared for anything else. I met up with the group again in time for late afternoon study and dinner at Rena Ashkenazi's home. Rena is on staff at Melton and I have been in email correspondence with her for the last 3 years. It was wonderful to be hosted in her home. She lives just inside the green line and the evening program was a panel discussion with a neighbor of hers who works for New Israel Fund and another acquaintance of Rena's who is a bit more religious and lives just on the other side of the green line. They were both thoughtful and passionate without being fanatics about their positions. I don't think anyone in our group changed their positions, but it was good to hear what each side is thinking and believing. Another night of good conversations and great food!