Raw Talent and Restrictions

I have to stop for a moment in this blog and say how privileged it feels to work with such talented students in Palestine, hearing their personal experiences and learning about their lives. Most of the students reside in villages surrounding Nablus and some come as far as an hour away, by the time they make it through multiple checkpoints. Not only are their materials in limited supply but the stress of occupation and random internal conflicts weighs on their ability to complete projects, not to mention the unlikely-hood of having a job upon completion or even for their work to viewed outside the West Bank. In the Middle East there is a huge market for arabesque art and mosaic tiling, and Nablus is known for one of the most famous tile makers, with his tradition style and techniques. Yet with all this raw talent and wealth of inspiration and drive, they are relegated to low paying jobs if their lucky to even land one in the first place. Many of these students are accepted into foreign universities for masters programs and even some are lucky enough to get scholarships. What's holding them back? A Visa - it's disgusting how these youths are essentially encouraged to ship in but not allowed to come out and prosper, bringing back even more skill and economic networks into their communities. Hmmmm, and where does the frustration come from again? It has nothing to do with work ethic, Arab culture or religious beliefs. Nablus is a peacefull city that should be recognized for its capabilities. The Hamas/Fatah/PFLP internal conflict is a great excuse for Israel to keep a tight lid on the Palestinian restrictions of movement and prosperity.