Further to my posting of 1 Jan. 2011 and the reference to home demolitions in East Jerusalem, our EAPPI Team in Jerusalem accompanied a family whose home was demolished on 3 Jan. 2011. Nasser and Lina Seyam and their six children were left with one “legal” room in which to live. See these two online news articles for photos and more info: “Palestinian property demolished in French Hill” and “Israeli authorities on Monday demolished part of a Palestinian home in occupied East Jerusalem”.
Nasser Seyam with his demolished home - 4 Jan. 2011 - Photo: Sherry Ann
On the morning after the demolition, two of our team returned to check on the family.
Day after: “How are you?”
Blank yet deepest wells for eyes:
Slight shrug. “We’re trying to move forward.”
As we left, the family was expecting a visit from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). We think that the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) may visit, too. What then…
Peacing Stories 
Hi Sherry Ann,
Happy New Year!
As I read your stories, and think back on my own last two weeks, the difference in openess and safety come to mind. Then I re- read your accounts and find beauty in the people and children you have encountered. May the world find a way to peace in this coming year!
Take care,
Lois
Oh, Sherry Ann!! I felt sick when looking at the photos and cannot imagine the pain felt by the family as they watched their home being destroyed. How cruel! … and to what purpose! I am sure you are a ray of sunshine just being there with the family in their pain, letting them know that there are those in the world who care about their plight. Thank you for the work you are doing.
We think of you often, Sherry Ann. Stay well.
Dear Sherry Ann,
As I hear Chris Ferguson talk about the history and present situation here at the January orientation for the next EAPPI group, and as I hear the stories of what life is like for Palestininans in Jerusalem from you, I too wonder what we can bring to those who suffer so. Maybe we can only be there with them, to listen, to hear, to cry, to shake our heads. You are there in solidarity. And I am thankful you are.
Blessings Sherry Ann.. you are God’s witness.
Lenora
Sherry Anne, thank you for your writing. I felt sick on reading this story. Knowing that more such is in store for Silwan as well as all the other East Jerusalem neighbourhoods means that EAPPI’s witness is so important. Thank you for that. I’ll do what I can to publicize this blog.
Thanks so much, Julie, for the publicizing support!!
peace,
Sherry Ann
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