Shabbat in Mitzpe Ramon

Today was Shabbat  - no riding.  Got to sleep a little late, rest, read, got a massage, a little bit of services.  At Mitzpe Ramon there is the Makhtesh - it’s not a crater, it’s a mazhtesh, an erosion crater.  It is one of the Wonders of the World .  It used to be part of the secret Nabatian spice routes, and it is huge - visible from the moon.  (no pictures today - it's late and i have get up really early - i'll try to catch up tomorrow or Monday.)

The other cool thing is that there are ibexes all over the place.  Mountain goats of a sort.

In the afternoon we heard from a group of Arava Institute alumni from Israel, Jordan, Palestine and the States.  They told of their experiences studying at the Instiitute, and most importantly about the relationships they developed with their fellow students - people who they were raised to think of as enemies.  They spoke of the environmental projects they are taking to their homes - biodegrades for Hebron, solar energy in Amman, Jordan and their hopes for peace as they plant the seeds of trust and cooperation across borders.  The uniqueness of this program is that it lasts over a semester, a year or two years of study, and it appears to be a model that is building sustainable leadership and partners.  A remarkable thing.  Learn more about the institute at www.arava.org (I think).  Also Hazon, which is focused on environmental issues in the states, and is the largest American Jewish environmental organization.  These are inspiring stories.

We end Shabbat with Havdalah - a joyous services of song and dance that marks the separation between Shabbat and the week to come.  We shared the things on the ride that inspired us, and two Arava alums announced that they had become engaged to be married on this Shabbat.

All and all a lovely day.

Tomorrow we ride.

Shavuah Tov (a good week) and L’hirtaot,

Lester