ZIAD IN GAZA

 On my way back, I meet a university professor I know. I admit that I was impressed he maintained a neat look despite the horrible times. I have noticed that people these days have no energy to even do the polite part of the talking like: “Hi, how are you?” They just start talking as if you had been together for an hour. He looks at me and points his finger towards what I assume is Egypt. “The minute this is over, I am leaving immediately. We call ourselves educators? What is left and who is left to educate? We are back 100 years, our main concern will be finding a roof over our heads, not education.”

I continue moving. I see another man I know. He and his wife and children left, while his parents, siblings and others decided to stay in Gaza City. “I feel extremely guilty for leaving them behind. I am here, ‘safer’, while they are witnessing all kinds of suffering. I don’t think I will forgive myself because I am the oldest brother and it was my responsibility to make sure all are safe