Vacation and Return

School Vacation:

Noun: Any extended time without physical classes but no end to school related work.

I am back in Israel, back in the apartment. Just a little less than two weeks and I am back in class. While the remainder of the semester should be easier than the first, I'm not quite sure I had any sort of break. Two weeks, and to be honest there is not much to write. On the one hand it feels good to feel independent again, and not sleeping under my parent’s roof like I am back in high school. That’s not to say I did not enjoy my time with my parent, or that I didn’t enjoy high school. I was very happy to see my parents. And my mother organized and prepared an absolutely wonderful brunch which only makes me realize what wonderful food I am missing here. But if Bruce has taught me anything, living in the glory days of years past is not healthy. What's really important is the here and now.

I had a wonderful time in the states seeing some of my friends. It was certainly good to see those of you I was able to. I also got for myself a cheap, knock-off, moleskin. I have a feeling it’s going to end up like most of my marble composition books, in other words, without covers before long. I’ll admit I keep a diary of adventures here in Israel. It’s not very full, but I guess it started with my travel journal from backpacking in Europe. I still have that εφημερίδα safe in my room. Magically it still has it’s covers on it.

So the reason for the second notebook? For verbal throw-up, as one of my college English teachers used to say. I sincerely want to get into creative writing again, as hard as it is. One of the best ways is not to have anything in mind, and just write! It’ll be 90% junk, but who knows, there may be a gem here and there. It’s kind of like my pictures. I take a lot of pictures. Most of them are absolutely terrible, and I know that, but there are some great pictures.

There is not too much to write about, not much I want to write about in particular. Some things just cannot, or should not be written in words, or online in particular. But I just want to conclude with a small dedication and reminder.

To laugh often and much;
To win the respect of intelligent people
and the affection of children;
To earn the appreciation of honest critics
and endure the betrayal of false friends;
To appreciate beauty, to find the best in others;
To leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child,
a garden patch or a redeemed social condition;
To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived.
This is to have succeeded.

To the people I love, those who have given of themselves so much and oft asked for nothing in return. To those here now, and those departed. I hope all are remembered for their never ending generosity, their love, and their devotion.