..continued...

Yesterday we got to know some American-Palentinians, who were willing to explaing us some issues from somewhat local perspective (and some tips where to eat and drink, since Beirut  is quite as expensive as Finland.They explained how many young Lebanese feel hopeless about the future since the real Lebanese identity is lost after war. The city is being rebuilt by money from abroad, and the city is becoming a playground for Arab emirates,my new friend told me. The city is being built an empty facade for people who have money, but it could be located anywhere since it's lacking local life. Also the fact that there are more Lebanese people living outside Lebanon than in Lebanon is a source on hopelessness for many young people. After the war the distrust between people remains, but little by little there emerge people who try to open up some old wounds. All over the city you can see pictures of assassinated prime minister Hariri and banners saying TRUTH. Resently a book about a journalist who was murdered a year ago was published. So everything is still quite open concerning the past and the future. Yet, this place is supposed to be safe for foreigners, since assassinated people here have been well-chosen targets of political conflicts. The American-Lebanese men had some contacts to Palestinian camps in Beirut, there are four of those in capital, so let us see if we get to visit one. We also got to hear about the gay scene in Beirut, that is seemingly lively, yet underground here. Maybe this is one people group that should be considerably good to connect with if one was living here, seems like the whole issue is different than in the west and drawing more `freaks`, people who stand out of the mainstream culture.

I also met some Finnish people in a bookshop yesterday and they are connected to friend working in Finnish embassy serving Syria and Lebanon, so they were also able to explain some things for me.Walking home after midnight I felt quite safe since there are soldiers in every street corner day and night.

Going to meet some believers ministering here the next week. 

Comments

[Tim the Enchanter]

Sounds like an exciting, interesting and challenging trip Niina. Thanks for these informative posts. Thanks also for your commitment to Jesus and the consequences.

[laura]

PALESTINIAN americans! niina!

[Gabi]

Finally another person who feels the gay community is a excellent, or the best starting point to take part in indigenous ministry. Why others can't see what we see?!? Viva la Creative Class!!!

[Marc van der Woude]

Somehow I expected a reaction from Gabi on this post... ;-)