Summer '08 , Monday 19 May 2008

Dear Friends, Another summer is approaching, and I cannot help but await it with excitement. Last week, the Israelis celebrated their 60th year of independence, all the while, the Palestinians mourned their lack of it. In a span of two short days, each side tried to make its own existence, make its own cause more dominant. Each side competed to be louder, to make its own cause more worthy. And then the United States president came, to congratulate the Israelis, ultimately and unquestionably settling the competition and establishing who is in fact, louder. It was perhaps a bright example of the way politics has been conducted in this region for centuries. And yet in between the chaos of celebration, mourning, holidays and sadness, quotidian life continued, mostly unaffected. Amidst blue flags of celebration and black balloons of mourning, life surged on as it ought to, to remind us, or perhaps to mock us, that life will continue. Without promises of improvement or of a better future, life continues. I had just gotten back from a trip to Italy and the United States. My wife and my two sons, George and Steven traveled to Padova, Italy to attend the wedding of my niece, Paola. My oldest sister Bassima, has been married and living there for almost forty years and was excited to invite us to the beautiful ceremony. After less than a week spent in Italy, my family and I made our way to the US, to Earlham College in Richmond, IN. My second eldest daughter, Jihan was to graduate, with honors. Finally four years of distance, long distance phone calls, expensive plane tickets and tuition fees had paid off. I saw my daughter walk down the aisle and receive her diploma. I was so thrilled, I could not contain myself enough to snap a photo of the moment. Instead I walked up to her and met her on her way back to her seat to embrace her. I had never felt more proud. Making my way back to piled office work and correspondence was definitely worth the effort, worth the site. I am now looking forward to a promising summer, a summer that includes the celebrations and mourning of the people as a part of what life in this region entails.

Season's Greetings , Thursday 01 November 2007

Friends, The Holidays Season is in full swing. Preparations for the celebrations of our Lord's birth are being finalized. As one more year has passed us, it is important to remember the events of 2007. On the Palestinian front, the fighting between the two Palestinian factions has caused chaos, leading to a split in the government. On the Israeli side, the prime minister had to resign due to a sex scandal. The Annapolis Conference, which was a Middle East peace conference held on November 27, 2007, at the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, United States. The conference ended with the issuing of a joint statement from all parties. And globally, the dollar has declined in value, leading to fuel prices spikes and international economic concerns. Despite such events affecting our daily life, the year 2007 was a blessed year. We experienced a relatively successful year as more tourists have visited the Holy Land. Their presence, in a way, has given us hope and has strengthened our dedication to our ministry at Sindbad. Yet we must urge you to visit the Holy Land while you can, for we cannot foretell what God has planned for us and Holy Land. Projections for 2008 are promising. An event to look forward to is Sindbad Tourist Travel Agency's 50th year of operation (Sindbad was started in 1957). Given the occasion, the management and staff are planning a special year of celebration. The Sindbad family will present a fresh image of itself - complete with a new logo and stationary. "Next year in Jerusalem" is always said as a form of good-bye. Let us truly mean it for 2008. If not this coming year, then plan for the next one. If not we will meet in Jesus' Jerusalem, the eternal city of Peace. Season's Greetings, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. God Bless

Jerusalem , Friday 01 September 2006

Dear brothers, sisters and colleagues, I am pleased to write to you all once again and share with you my latest news. Last month, my eldest son, George, graduated from Earlham College, in Richmond, Indiana. My wife Suha and my youngest son Steven, now seven years old, made the trip to the United States for the big event. The graduation ceremony was spectacular and I was extremely proud. Watching him walk down the aisle and receive his diploma eased the strain of the past four years of separation and worry. I spent one week there. My middle child, Jihan, who has just finished her second year at Earlham was also there cheering her brother on. Suha and I met my children's professors and friends. I had to get used to the fact of introducing myself as "George's father" or "Jihan's father." We also struggled to help with George's seemingly never- ending packing. Two days after graduation, my entire family made its way back home. It was so relieving to travel together. Now, seeing my two sons and daughter once again under my roof has been bringing me great joy everyday. Although I had initially urged my son to go on to graduate school, he insisted that he wants to come home. Since being home, George has been spending time with me trying to learn as much as possible. I am relieved that George appreciates this business that has nurtured my family and me for the past twenty-five years. Although it has been extremely challenging especially the past six years, Sindbad has been our only source of income. George has also enrolled in the local School of Tourism where he will be receiving his guiding license as well as his Travel Expert license. I call on all of you to pray for George as he makes his transition from a carefree student to a responsible adult with a career. Although politically the region continues to bring heartache and turmoil to all those affected, business improved significantly this past year. Most of my past friends, customers, and colleagues made memorable visits that brought me great pleasure and excitement. Life continues to be a daily struggle, a very unpredictable one. But everyday I find the strength to keep trying, to keep going. I wish you all a great summer and I hope to hear from all of you soon. Best Wishes, Gabriel Abdalla

Jerusalem , Tuesday 01 August 2006

Dear Friends, The past few weeks of violence and uncertainty have certainly been eventful. I witnessed as the already overpopulated city of Jerusalem was suddenly overwhelmed with thousands of Arab-Israelis and Israelis seeking the safety of Jerusalem and Bethlehem. The hotels and restaurants that have been mostly vacant the past four years were suddenly packed with visitors. Entire families left their homes in Haifa and other northern cities and filled the hotels, sometimes four or five person per room. It was certainly interesting watching the change of mood in the otherwise calmness of Jerusalem. I have lost all of the groups that were scheduled to come in August and September. Something I dread has happened, but somewhat anticipated. I was, however, very enthusiastic about the brave few who came. The Carpenters from the USA, Oliva from Cataluyna, Phil from England, Father Moise from France, and Fred and Yvone from South Africa all enjoyed there very special visit to the region. On Monday August 14, 2006, nobody could hide their hopefulness as the cease-fire was announced, following more than a month of fighting. People who came from the north were preparing to return to their homes, and us, back to work or back to normalcy. The hotels, in the entire northern area are all in full readiness for operation. I hope that this short message finds you all well. Meanwhile, I am hoping that my telephone will start ringing nonstop again and that my email inbox will constantly be full of your wonderful messages. Indeed, normalcy. Warm Regards, Gabriel Abdalla

Jerusalem , Saturday 01 July 2006

Dear Friends, Summer is coming to an end. Not with bright hopes for a breezy Fall season, but with insecurity and fear for what lies ahead. In the past few weeks, I was touched by the many phone calls and emails of consolation and support; but I was also devastated with the many emails of cancellation. An entire season's worth of work all crumbled in a day. I watched the disappointment on my staff's faces, the defeat. At home, I try not to relay my own frustration to my family. I have been trying to encourage my son George, who has recently graduated from college, to pursue his studies and work here. I also try to encourage my daughter Jihan to finish her remaining two years in college and return home. And I do my best to reassure my wife Suha that this too shall pass. As for my eight year old son Steven, all I can hope for is to try and ensure him a normal childhood. As the news channels cover more and more horrific scenes and footages, I recognize the reasons why my friends opted to cancel their visits. But I also continue to be grateful that Jerusalem and its neighboring cities continue to be safe places for those who live there as well as for those who visit. And I would like to inform you all as well as reassure you of that fact. As I think of the many bills, debts and salaries to be paid with no income coming in any time soon, my heart aches. But I feel overwhelming responsibility, not only to my faithful employees, but also to this business, which I have come to view as my calling in life. I have made the decision to remain in this business a long time ago. There have been better times than right now; but there have been worse days. Maybe this recent deterioration of events will prove worse than ever before. But I am intent on keeping this business alive. I am intent on keeping my presence alive. And I am even more intent on keeping my faith in God and his work in this Land alive. Dear Friends, I hope that you are all well. Keep us in your thoughts and prayers, as we go though this time of trial. I hope to hear from you all soon. Peace, love and grace. Gabriel Abdalla

Jerusalem , Friday 03 June 2005

Dear friends, With summer about to start, I am now trying to analyze where I am standing and where things are heading. The past four years have showed me how powerful God is, but also how challenging life can get. Now that my two children, George and Jihan are home for the summer, I am extremely grateful to still be in business, to still be hopeful. The political situation has not significantly improved, nor has it worsened. People are still worried and insecure. Nevertheless, I have been receiving requests for bookings, and for that ii m very encouraged. I admire all of those who have come here when this region has needed them most. An employee & a drear friend of mine, Mike Wehbeh, passed away last month. For many years Mike was a valuable member of my staff as a tour guide. He was also a close friend to my family and me. A husband and a father of two young children, his death was a tragedy. He had recently moved to the United States in search of a better life for his family and him. He died of heart problems before he got the chance to achieve that. His death brought tremendous grief to my family members and office employees. George, my eldest son, has just finished his third year of college. This fall, he will begin his fourth and final year. Suha and I are thrilled. He is now in the process of deciding what he would like to do once he is finished. My second eldest, Jihan attends the same college as George, Earlham College. She has just finished her first year and is enthusiastic about the remainder of her college career. My youngest, Steven, is about to finish the first grade. By far the most energetic member of our family, six year old Steven is a constant source of joy to my family and me. As the political situation seems to slowly improve, so has the business. Many old friends, particularly from the US, Canada, and Australia have made a pilgrimage and a contribution to this region by coming. These groups that came enjoyed the fact that they were able to visit the many historical and religious sites in Palestine and Israel more rapidly and with ease since there were not too many other tourists around. I hope that you are all enjoying your summer. I will be waiting to hear of all of your news soon. Meanwhile I will be praying for peace for the people and leaders of the region. That somehow they can provide a place where people can work ,live, and visit with no worries. With God love, Gabriel Abdalla Sindbad Tourist Travel Agency

Jerusalem , Sunday 01 December 2002

Precious friends, Merry Christmas & Happy New Year. I am very grateful for your constant support, prayers and thoughts. Though many of you were perhaps expecting a letter of a positive nature, I am sorry to disappoint you. Our economy is suffering greatly and many of our industries have gone bankrupt. Too many people have now lost their jobs and sit in their homes in despair. Of all areas affected by the current situation, the travel and tourism industry is perhaps the most affected. A dozen bus companies have completely shut down; nearly all hotels and restaurants are facing the same hopelessness. We are however, alive and well; we have food on out tables, cloths on our backs and beds to sleep in. for that, we are truly grateful. We are grateful to God and His daily protection. We are also encouraged daily by friends who uplift us with their letters, emails and phone calls. I have spent much time pondering over the future of the company that I have been building for the past decade. Closing it down, is simply not a solution; on the other hand, my current financial situation is not giving me many alternatives. That is why I have reached a solution that I could propose to you. I firmly believe that the future of Sindbad Travel Ministry lies in the solidarity of its clients. How can each one of you shoulder our burdens in this time of need? On promoting or/and joining a group to the Holy Land under the theme "Mission of Hope" or "Stand in Solidarity" whatever you wish to call it. I would like you also to commit yourself if you can on sending a check for a minimum amount of US $ 50 monthly, for a period of six months for a total of US $ 300 or more. Upon receipt of your first check, we will send you a credit note a certificate bonus with your name for that amount. These remittances will be recorded by your name in our files as advances. You will be reimbursed by either receiving services or having money sent back to you as soon as these crises are over which we hope will not last much longer. I will now enclose this letter with a word of thanks to any and all who will agree to assist us through our time. We pray that God will soon place his hand upon this land and restore peace once again. Sincerely yours, Gabriel Abdalla Sindbad Tourist Travel Agency

Jerusalem , Saturday 20 April 2002

Dear friends, Yet again, we are extremely grateful for God's protection and mercy. We are joyful for we can feel God's presence amongst us through this difficult time. We are pleased that although many are homeless, starving and have lost dear ones many others still have shelter, food, clothing. A few others still have a hope that peace will once again prevail. We are also very grateful to all those who came in solidarity to this country at such time. We will always remember you as brave and upstanding men and women of God. We would also like to thank all those who gave contributions to this business; you all hold a special place in our hearts. Regardless of what the media publishes, we urge all of you to come and visit this country and witness first hand what is occurring here. This country is not dangerous, nor is it unsafe. Visitors and tourists have never been a target of any kind. If you come, you will have the rare opportunity to come and witness what will soon make up very important chapters of many history books. I am sure that you will find the situation completely different from what the media has misled you into believing. It is ironic that the country where Jesus, through his death, was able to fulfill peace in our lives is the country that faces the most unrest. As the beginning of this month, we are very encouraged by a group from New Zealand. For nine days, these six people visited nearly every site in the Holy Land. They not only enjoyed their stay, but they also gave us hope, one day, y business can flourish. Through this difficult terrible political instability, my family is also facing some issues that need some prayer. My oldest son, George is a senior at high school and is having a difficult time at choosing a suitable college or university. Enrolling my son at college in this country is not an option. Arab colleges, which are situated in the West Bank have closed; and, the chances of a Palestinian being accepted at an Israeli University are slim. I feel that my son would acquire a much better education in an environment that is free from the disturbance and instability that is surrounding us. That is why I am welcoming all ideas, suggestions, and any offers you may have. The primary issue that we are facing in our decision is the financial one. My youngest son, Steven, who is three years old, is undergoing an operation on Tuesday morning. He is getting his tonsils and adenoids removed; that is why we ask that you all say a prayer of complete recovery to little Steven as he goes through his six hours long operation. We would like to thank all those that have encouraged us through their p[hone calls and emails; they keep us motivated. Please keep supporting us spiritually, emotionally, and financially, we most certainly will need it. Keep praying for us, for God will undoubtedly listen. We truly hope that the Yours in his service. Gabriel Abdalla Sindbad Tourist Travel Agency

Jerusalem , Thursday 13 September 2001

Dear friends and colleagues. The tragedy of Tuesday September 11, 2001 will never be forgotten. The terrorism against the World Trade center in New York and the Pentagon in Washington D.C are so shocking that words will never capture the emotions of this catastrophe. It is with deep sorrow and profound grief I write this message to offer our heartfelt condolences to the mothers, children, friends and families of the thousands of innocent people who have been the victims of the terrorist attacks yesterday morning in the USA. I would like to reach American friends to assure them that we stand by them at this difficult and tragic time. Constantly for the past eleven months, we have received many messages from our friends from America expressing their solidarity and sharing with us our grief. Never in our worst nightmares did we imagine that we would be witnessing such a horrendous event and human tragedy inflicted on our American friends. We care for every life and e pray for all those who are moaning the loss of loved ones taken away by this indiscriminate act of organized terror. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. As Palestinians we can very well understand the pain of our American friends. We know what it means when Political leaders are targeted and are not safe in their offices. We understand what it means when planes attack security headquarters. We know how it feels when the backbone of the economy is assaulted. I do not want to compare suffering, since every suffering is unique and this particular tragedy has such hideous dimensions. Yet, never before have had Americans and Palestinians shared so much. May the peace of Jesus Christ be with you all. We love you! Gabriel Abdalla Sindbad Tourist Travel Agency