Winter

Rain clouds all day

The temp has dropped by 10 degrees. Last night was about 5 degrees and this morning 11 degrees. Winter has come. There was a short burst of rain yesterday morning and then drizzle throughout the day. Weather forecast says it may snow today in the northern mountains. All that sounds wonderful and christmassy. Except at war time, there\ll be many people roofless and without heating or warm covering. It will be cold, wet and without food. It's a terrible plight.

Waiting in the rain

On my way home yesterday night, the City Gates were all closed due to a stabbing attack somewhere around the Old City. We had to wait out in the rain and cold for an hour before the blockade was lifted and I could go home.  It's inconvenient if you need the toilet or are carrying babies to be standing in the rain and strong winds for an hour. But I can understand the necessity for it. It's not simply to prevent terrorists from escaping but more importantly if there were a gunfight in the narrow streets, we might be collateral damage. So we are kept out for our own safety.

Advent will start in a week's time and soon Christmas will be around. Another year will pass. We can only hope that we'll have peace. We'd gladly trade all the festivities and celebrations for a lasting peace.