Time to get to work

This is the Southern end of the Mt. of Olives and all of those stones you see covering it are Jewish graves

On the Rampart Wall with the Southern end of the Mt. of Olives in the background. In case you were wondering I don't wear the same clothes every day. These have all been pictures from the same day.

Today was a full day of class and it finally hit me that I am not just here in Jerusalem to have a good trip, but to study hard and learn more about the culture and history of the land as well. I am definitely excited to expand my knowledge of this area, but it is hard to think that I will have to sacrifice some time in the city for time to study.

Our main classes for today included Hebrew, Judaism/Israel, and Palestinian/Muslim studies. Our Judaism class is taught by a Jew from here in Jerusalem and our Palestinian/Muslim class is taught by a Muslim from Bethlehem. It is very interesting and exciting to learn from people who have experienced these religions and cultures through actually living them. They have so many personal experiences and so much knowledge in these areas and I can't wait to actually have a deeper understanding of the everyday lives of the people who surround me in this city. Hebrew class was also interesting and actually a lot of fun. Just from the introduction and review of some basic letters and sounds, it doesn't seem like it will be a very hard language to learn and our teacher uses fun songs and other methods that will help us remember what we learn. There is so much to learn and I am so excited!!