Mrs Betty Majaj – A Very Important Servant

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Had an interesting morning on the Mount of Olives visiting one of the Micah68 project partners – The Jerusalem Princess Basma Center (www.basma-centre.org) and having coffee and lunch with Mrs Betty Majaj and members of the staff of a place I have had a links with since 1998 (which made me feel old!) Great to see some work still around the place from old Highway Projects days, and good to be able to arrange the handover of a Micah68 gift to the work there to help continue this important work. Earlier this year after 30 years of service to the community via the Basma Center Mrs Majaj (very occasionally Betty) was awarded the title ‘The First and Most Distinguished Lady of Jerusalem 2012’ by Mahmoud Abbas(and yes – she has the prize to prove it). Naturally I bowed in her presence, which made her laugh a lot. Not a bad title for someone who regards herself as a servant of The Servant King, and many of us regard as one of life’s saints.

Oh, and after that I had coffee at Jaffa Gate with my old friend Sohil Haj (which made me feel even older!)…..a man who has several titles including Mr Nadi al Mahaba. If you know these guys, and want to add your own titles to these VIS’s…..please do….

Lots of room here in Bethlehem!

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Currently in the offices of Bethlehem Fair Trade Artisans (www.bethlehemfairtrade.org) just off Manger Square, looking across the hills in brilliant sunshine, and discussing fair trade and justice with Suzan Sahori, Lana and friends from a Micah68 link project over very strong coffee! Check out their work, and ways to support them on Micah68. Best falafel in town at Afteem!

Just being in Jerusalem

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Arrived into the heat of Jerusalem, and falafel and hummous already consumed! Wonderfully greeted by various friends on the Via Dolorosa, and plans all dropping into place for my partner visits which start tomorrow. Being in Jerusalem reminded me of some advice I picked up when last in wildjordancafe in Amman, and I have developed a little from their menu advice. Maybe you could add?

Be green, Be light, Be good, Be yourself, Be natural, Be loving, Be just, Be merciful, Be humble, Be joyful, Be simple, Be peaceful, Be vocal, Be thoughtful, Be kind, be compassionate……..