We are looking forward to interacting with the Ethiopian youth of Ashdod at least once a month. We feel that this is only the start of something BIG that God’s gonna make happen!
When we called to confirm our Dec. 2nd meeting, we found out about a ‘play’ they were having on Dec. 5th. So instead of the meeting, we decided to check the play out! The key word here is ‘interacting’.
Last month I mentioned some color and acceptance issues these youth struggle with, whether real or imagined; this operation calls for compassion, understanding, identifying with, and kid gloves.
Lura, Rebeka, Ida (when she returns), and I make a great team for this. Also, Ali our Bedouin friend who accepted the Lord and is attending congregation is very interested in this project! Each of us on the team is ‘living proof’ that we identify and relate to issues of color.
Last month Rebeka (an Israeli) showed pictures of her daughter Michelle whose father is African; this time she brought her!
All the Ethiopian girls loved Michelle! They started playing Ethiopian music and teaching her how to do their dance! Plus this was an awesome experience for 3 yr. old Michelle who’s been asking questions about color!
The play was nice! Not exactly Broadway (smile) but very nice! Great exposure for Rebeka, Michelle and Ali who accompanied me! Great displays, great tasting samples of Ethiopian cooking and coffee.
The youth were extremely excited to see us! We traveled all the way from the desert to their city on the Med just to visit THEM!
P.S. The play was about their issues! If you ask me, these kids are really on the ball. The Ethiopians are considered to be meek, quiet, humble people who don't look you in the eyes (look down) when addressed. These kids are saying 'we have feelings', 'we are not doormats', 'we are people','we are not stupid'.
They choose to express this through their newsletter and the arts. Wow!
Edwin Beckford
(12/5/03)