Because our airline credits – postponed 4 years already – will expire next month, we’re taking British Airlines to the States.  The occasions for our trip are wonderful, but I feel like I’m leaving too many things unfinished.  We go from crisis to crisis.   And seeing it from far away doesn’t decrease our sense of helplessness.  

What do I mean by this?  Our values and laws are so mixed up there is no way to uncomplicate them.  Here is one example I like:  The family of the Palestinian worker who was killed in a rocket blast the other day is now entitled to compensation.  Since he was cleared for working in this country, he was not a member of a terrorist association in Gaza.  However, since his wages were supporting the entire hamula of more than 20 people, who is to say that he was not taking care of a Jihad cousin?  Nevertheless, these 20 people will continue to be supported by Israel’s government.  At the same time, I know of numerous families in Israel who would be saved by some government support.  

Here’s another one:  During the rocket attacks a few days ago, our reporters started announcing that according to Al Jezira, we are close to a cease-fire.  Shortly after Al Jeriza reported that according to Israel news, we are close to a cease-fire.  So if we’re communicating what we know through the news channels, why can’t we announce peace?

How can I leave the country without unravelling some of these tangles?