The first part of the day was spent at the soup kitchen prepping not only for lunch, but also for Shabott. The staggering reality is that nearly 33% of those living in this neighborhood of Jerusalem are at the poverty level. Throughout the year residents stream in to open doors, eventhough resources and volunteers are not at the level needed. I'm really enjoying having an opportunity to know those running the shelter as well as those entering its doors. Its a unique experience that continues to keep things in perspective.
Shabott proves challenging for the soup kitchen, but it also creates a buzz and pandemoneum among locals that is totally unreal. Walking through the markets on my way back to the flat it was jammed packed with people purchasing challah bread, fruit, vegetables and goods needed for the weekend. Everything literally shuts down near sundown and does not reopen until Sunday morning. Walking into the local bakeries the smells of fresh rugelah, hamontash, and challah bread is mouthwatering. Every inch of bakeries and the market area becomes a sea of people pushing and nudging to get their weekend needs and return home to their families.
Tonight I'm joining Marc's family in town for Shabott dinner. Pretty stoked about that one.
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