But they did not look on a Palestinian as a low-life that ought to be contained or exterminated. Like many of my Israeli contemporaries, I did my time in the army. I remember the smell of cordite, jeep's flight in the desert, the green sky of night vision, shrieks of shrapnel, Suez crossing, twin tents, fellowship of arms. As a young soldier in a crack unit, I was proud of my red boots and paratroops wings, I listened with a wistful heart to the stories of the brave deeds of Arik Sharon and Meir Har Zion. I am not ashamed to admit I cherish them together with the courage of Karame fighters and that daredevil Leila Khaled.
Soldiers can understand other soldiers.
Together we form Palestine. Whenever the beautiful green Palestine would be united, all her communities will bring their best achievements into the common cause of making this special land the best place on earth, as it should be. The Palestinians will contribute their art of growing olives and tending the springs, their peasant love of the land and unbroken spirit of Intifada. Our Israeli contribution won't include Einstein's theory or Wall street wizardry, as we do not understand it, but the military exploits worthy of Crusaders' glory. In Palestine, we don't need peace.