The boat arrived this morning at 7:30, schussing through the water, white caps on either side. Osama, Mary and I were at the dock to greet the returnees, again thrilled to see them on deck. This time, 29 people returned, either of them Palestinians from Gaza. Dr. Mona was on board on her way to see her daughter and brother, Musheir, in the UK. Three students came, thrilled to be going to the universities that had granted them entrance.

A union organizer was also on board. The older couple on their way to Germany had come with gifts for their family. The mother did not know that her son had flown in to greet them. She was bowled over when he came around the corner and said, “Hi Mom”. It had been years since they had seen him.

As far as the organizers are concerned, we’re tired and need a break. Two trips in two weeks was a strain on all of us. But, watching the smile on the face of the mother was worth all of our sleepless nights, long days, constant phone calls and worry.

The Parliamentarians begin to go home today. The Palestinian students fly out tomorrow and the next day. Only a few of us will remain to take care of the boat (Derek, Denis, Theresa and Nicos) and the debriefing (Mary, me, Huwaida, Ramzi, David). The photos that I took will be posted shortly.

—
Greta Berlin
Media Team
Free Gaza Movement
357 99 08 17 67
www.freegaza.org
www.anis-online.de/office/events/FreeGazaSong.htm
www.flickr.com/photos/29205195@N02/