There are times and circumstances where you find yourself in a familiar place, yet the location has a surprisingly different feel than usual. As I made my way to the Misrad Hapnim (Ministry of Interior) for my early morning appointment, I wasn’t exactly jumping for joy at my chance to be inside the infamous building. The Ministry is known for its long lines, rude customer service, and strict rules (who ever heard of rules being listened to in this country? Bent, maybe, but not listened to). By the time I got out of there, I was ready for some major winding down. So I headed where most teenagers head on a typical night to just chill; Ben Yehuda. However, this was not the same Ben Yehuda that you and I got to know as students; nope, it was a place bustling while stores didn’t even open yet. It was a wide street with pretty squares that hosted beautiful greenery. It was a street that trucks were actually driving down…who knew cars, let alone trucks, were even allowed down that road? It was a place that housed an idle truck with a cheery Israeli heaving out huge bunches of fresh flowers for the local shop. It was a place where I was able to enjoy a quiet, peaceful breakfast without the constant boisterousness.
Moving on towards Geula, which I have never seen empty or quiet, I was even further surprised. I didn’t see familiar faces on street corners with cups in their hand, banging a rhythm with the jingling coins. I didn’t see bus stops filled to capacity, so much so that passersby are forced into the streets along with the very close-to-the-edge buses. I didn’t even see popcorn popping in their machines every other store. It was a whole new world, and I truly began appreciating the serenity and the quaintness that comes along with the street if you just get there at the right time (no, that time is not Friday afternoon). I realized that it doesn’t have to be a one-time opportunity either. Try it out; get moving in the Old City in the hours where you’ll actually have a chance to admire the slippery stones and the paths that lead dozens of different ways.
One thing that is important to realize in planning your trip of discovery: don’t explore places that are usually quiet. The way to go is to be in those areas that normally exceed the decibel level of a boom box. Bring yourself to the liveliest of places at the right time, and you will be able to experience the ultimate tranquility.
A refreshing outlook!
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