Stabbing

Fra Ovidio R.I.P.

Fra Ovidio died 2 days ago. He's a robust spanish friar who was in charge of our religious objects. Many groups that come here would have known him. After several years of suffering cancer, he finally died in the infirmary. Always a brave man, typically spaniard ... right up to the end. I've known him since I was a student here 20 years back. Can be gruff but always with a soft spot. He always offered me coffee and cakes (from Spain) whenever I stop by his office. Always with a crackling laugh and a slap on the back ... and his memorable "Bueno!" God will reward him abundantly. R.I.P.

The weather has turned cold and rainy again. The wind is biting icy. Still the Jerusalem Marathon went ahead this morning. 32 km in all. I wonder how many people actually took part. http://www.haaretz.com/print-edition/news/thousands-set-off-for-the-second-jerusalem-marathon-1.418968

Beginning of warmer days ...

Despite the change in weather, al fresco cafes are opening up ... a sure sign that summer is round the corner, if not already in. The occasional shower sends patrons scattering indoors but soon they're out again with their coffee and cakes. Can't wait for summer holidays to come.

Meantime I have to deal with the pain - implant and epicondylitis. My face is still swollen and the pain though reduced is still lingering. Am on painkillers ... which is killing two birds with one stone since it also helps with the pain on the elbows. My left arm is still braced with wrist and elbow guards.

Yesterday a soldier was stabbed while riding the Jerusalem Light Rail. Awful ... and just in the height of the Gaza-Israel bombings. http://www.haaretz.com/news/national/israeli-soldier-stabbed-on-jerusalem-light-rail-1.418835  Tensions are high and everyone is unhappy that relationship between arabs and jews have soured again. Now it's suspicion and anger and hatred ... the fragile peace we've enjoyed the past year all shattered by one act of violence. Now we'll have more security checks in the City Gates, in street corners ... more obstacles both physical and psychological. It makes living here a wearisome chore.