A New Perspective

    The article I read this week revolved around the opinion of an Arab doctor, Faiza, who lives in Israel. She thanks Israel for the opportunities she has been provided due to her living here. Reading this was really nice, and I enjoyed hearing about an Arab with a pro-Israel perspective. Personally, I agree with all of her reasoning. I believe that my being born here has provided me with tremendous opportunities that I wouldn't have gotten otherise. Israel is a place full of culture, new beginnings, and people of every kind. As Faiza said, "Israel gives you the opportunity to express your human potential". I could not agree more with this statement, and like Faiza I am extremely thankful to be from this country. 

Article:  

http://blogs.timesofisrael.com/what-israel-is-giving-me-the-voice-of-an-arab-doctor/

Obligations & Desires

    Today, my roomate Becca and I got on the topic of my obligation to go into the IDF due to me being an Israeli citizen. It's always just been a reality to me; when I turn eighteen I'll enlist in the army with all of my friends in Israel. However, when everyone found out about my plans their jaws hit the ground. Seeing everyone's reactions really hit me hard. It made me realize how big this decision is. I guess since it isn't common or a requirement for Americans, it's slightly shocking that an eighteen year old leaving everything behind and heading off to another country for 2 years of military service. Personally, I can't imagine not fulfilling my role in the Israeli army. I feel obligated to go home and spend my fair share of time with my family here. Aside from that, I really do want to do this. I have the option of getting a release letter since I've lived in America for so long, but I decided for myself to take on this adventure.

"I am a Palestinian citizen of Israel, and I'm not an enemy of the state"

    In the article I read this week, a Palestinian citizen of Israel confronts the Israeli legal system and how it supposedly targets non-Jews. She narrowed in on the sad reality that an Israeli and Palestinian doing the same act would be treated like polar opposites. Despite both individuals being legitimate citizens of Israel, if each were to be in possession of a knife, the Israeli's case would be seen as a safety precaution, and the Palestinian's a threat. It's hard to agree with an opinion that is against the way Israel is run, but we experience the same sort of discrimination around the world. It's strange and new to see these similar facts presented from a different lens. Although it was difficult to read, we have to remember that there is really no such thing as perfection. People, situations, and countries alike, not one will ever be without flaws. This article was very eye-opening and offered a perspective that I wouldn't have thought up on m own. It was different to read along and agree somewhat with each opposing viewpoint.