Shotei Hanevua in Concert!

Went to this concert with some friends: an israeli band came to Cambridge. They were not bad, it was rather amusing actually, since I’m starting to get acquainted to the idea of being in a concert where I don’t understand a word! (I’m still a big fan of Blof, a dutch band I saw in concert in Amsterdam - but I still don’t understand a word they say. Oh, one I do: Omarm! (petite remarque: coucou, Céline!)).

What struck me, however, was that feeling of insecurity. Even though I was with a bunch of my favourite people in the western hemisphere, that we were out for a fun night, and indeed it was. Sure, part of the reason I went was to see what it’d look like in full immersion in an Israeli/Jewish community; but I’m not sure, even now, if it was thrilling or scary. Mind you, no one addressed me or anything; I just saw an amused look in the eyes of the girl selling ticket when she saw my name on my student ID.
(The dude distributing leaflet for voluntary work in Israel, however, automatically assumed I was Jewish, and started automatically offering his brochures... which I took, I couldn't let the poor boy down:)

But seriously, I wonder what it’s like for people who have to face this situation everyday. I’m thinking, in the first place, of Palestinians in their home. But also of all people who feel astranged (in their own country, often) when they are in a minority situation, where the majority may, or not, be hostile...

Difference can be scary sometimes, too.