# 171 – Egypt, Jerusalem & Twins

January 28, 2011

Mandela is ill.

Years ago, and ever since, I have been saying that Islam needs a Mandela to ‘adjust’ its direction; to perhaps remove the word ‘infidel’ from the text; to shift it towards Buddhism perhaps. Otherwise, nothing will stop the current negative expansion; certainly not political correctness.

And today’s news that the World’s Moslem population will double in 20 years – or whatever – did nothing to change my views.

On Tuesday, I fly to South Africa on a business trip (although I have friends there who will help me forget I am on a business trip). I am concerned. Shall I be there to witness that which I and millions of others dread?

Is he suffering from the news that abounds? Now Yemen has joined in. Not important? That’s the country where they say that Al Qaida has established itself in force. I have not switched on the news from today. I don’t want to know the result of Andy Murray’s semi-final at the Australian Open; I have recorded it. But I need to know what happened today in Egypt. Following Friday prayer, the Moslem Brotherhood followers had promised to take to the streets.

I am fearful for what will happen in that country. It could be another Iran, with 8 millions Christians stuck in the middle.

There is a lot of rumbling around us….

Like you and they, we go on with our lives. Today, we travelled to Jerusalem to attend the Brit Mila (circumcision celebration – the event was 3 days ago) of a cousin’s twin sons…..

Look at the fantastic location of the party…

First, the reception outside in the surprisingly summery weather – then move inside for the food, couple of speeches, and…

Music, of course – backed up by unbelievable views of the Old City

It was/is Aviva’s birthday today – so Eyal, the 53 year-old Daddy/host, presented her with one of the flower arrangements.

(The story behind this guy is special. He already has 2 wonderful kids. His first wife has been ‘very sick’ for many years. Continuing to care for her in the warmest possible way, he has re-married).

Later, not to miss the sun, we went for a walk in the Old City….

And there, in the new Malmila Mall, we came across the Israeli Army in all it’s glory….weapons ‘at the ready’, kippas (yarmulkas/skull caps) bowed in reverence to the clarinet and the accordion…..

And then we left for home, the sun setting, and Calatrava’s Bridge saying ‘bye’ to us as we drove out of the City….

Have a peaceful weekend…for many in this area will not.

Stephen