From a Window

In the name of God, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.

It was once said that the small country of Palestine could constitute a continent in its entirety. It has costal plains, desert, snow, mountains, and access to multiple seas. The terrain is breathtaking, and the sights are scenic. Whether the light is rising upon or the night is overcoming this blessed land, the natural beauty of it never ceases to be present. Traveling much, I have been fortunate enough to observe this place. I have witnessed it both by sun set and day break. There are rolling hills, that transform into majestic mountains. A splendid sea that allows sunshine to dance along the Mediterranean. Grass is limited, but needed in the least, as the stars can be gazed upon from elevated peaks. There are valleys that have depths which seem never ending. Everywhere is the decorated with olive trees that are rooted with generations of tending.

The only thing more captivating than looking at the land, is interacting with its lovely inhabitants. The Palestinians, people of an incomprehensible generosity, grace this piece of earth with the most hospitality. Spending countless hours outside, they look at their cultivations with something greater than pride. Planting rows of seeds in the light of sun, and praying for them to prosper at night, it is the art of agriculture to which they dedicate their laborious lives. Knowing the roads better than the Romans did themselves, this occupied people is like no one else. Cherishing a connection to a land so holy, they do not allow their country to be taken easily. Developing their orchards decade after decade, there is a natural resistance when they receive orders to vacate. Building their homes with stone from their city’s ancient quarry, they do not construct with the intention of leaving. Belonging to the only place where all the Prophets (peace be on them) walked, Palestinians do more than just talk the talk. Loving their land with all of its God given gifts, it is easy to see why separation causes so many rifts.

I notice the attachment, without even speaking to the people directly. I see it when I look into the distance while someone else is driving. I pass strangers and without a word of exchange, hear their hope and understand their pain. Communicating with them only brings about confirmation, for what their faces show through looks of dignified determination. As they marvel at the mountains and stare at the sea, their view encompasses more than what is perceived by you and me. When they spend time outside, they handle their work with a passion. Taking extensive efforts with the intention of securing a future for their children. When they think of their land, it reminds them of more than the present. They subconsciously think about the history that cannot be disconnected. Whether it be afternoon or evening, I never close my eyes to the unspoken show. For I know, a different world can be taken in, while looking from a window.

“And He placed at your service whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on earth—all is from Him. In that are signs for a people who think.” -The Qur’an 45:13

(<3>-) hakawati4humanity.