Arab and Israeli teens gather to learn that they can live together without violence
From the earliest moments of civilization, the people of the Middle East have struggled with cultural and religious differences. Set in that context, one can easily become discouraged. The conflict has spanned generations and recent events threaten to doom the region’s children to a violent world.
In Otisfield this month, however, there is hope. It is the hope that lies perpetually in the next generation. It is the Seeds of Peace International Camp.
Founded in 1993 and now in its permanent home in Maine, the camp brings together young people from throughout the Middle East. Organizers teach a simple and powerful lesson: Arabs and Israelis can live together without violence.
Campers come together and have fun. They swim, play games and dine with one another. They also talk directly about the issues that divide their parents.
The peace camp is an investment in the future. It won’t put the ongoing talks between Israel and the Palestinians back on track. It won’t rein in the extremists on both sides to make peace possible. Those are the immediate issues for the grown-ups.
The peace camp instead lays the foundation for a lasting end to an old conflict. It is a brighter future built one child at a time here in Maine.