Yes, I think there are many ways. But I think that trust and confidence is low. People are not willing to move forward. Nonetheless, it should be noted that mosques, churches and synagogues have been dialoguing in various parts of the country. There is an exchange happening, but it is not at a point of critical mass. It is low-level and while such exchanges are opening hearts and minds, there is always more to be done. The need is always there.

Perhaps writing a poem, painting a portrait, composing music, planting olive trees in the promised land.  Maybe we start a SIRIUS radio station that can be heard every where and where we just talk and get others to call, email and chat with us!

David, I think that people always take risks by doing something that is considered unpopular. Certainly, we are both taking risks but if it means being examples of how two people from two totally different backgrounds and perhaps opinions can get along, then I am all for it!

It has taken a long time and many years of working in the same office to get to this juncture and actually posting a joint blog. Living in America, I have always been around people of other faiths, particularly of the Jewish faith. One thing we usually always agreed upon was not to talk politics because we would surely disagree.

It’s my hope that the combination of your chutzpah and my prayers will lead to a substantive dialogue that is a mix of culture, politics, personal ruminations and fun.

Souheila, eyes are the window to the soul. When I look into your eyes I know that I can trust you .This did not happen overnight. It was a process between 2 people who come from very different background and history. As you wrote in my birthday card, you liked my Chutzpa, I saw that a sense of humor helped.

Our openness and mutual respect also helped.Your daily praying during work breaks caught my attention. I was intrigued, as in Israel I would always would be at a great distance from Muslim Women. I interacted only with secular Arab women who appeared on my Tv shows. I think this unique trust could only happen here in the USA–outside the deep polarized and suspicious world of the Mid East.

So looking into your Green eyes I reflect that we are a minority which reaches out and that you might take a risk by making our friendship public.