First Drop of Vienna Water Wudhu

Coming to Palestine

Vienna arrived at the Palestinian airport after a long and tiring journey from Indonesia. The air here felt different; the heat of the sun and the distinctive aroma of spices instantly greeted him as soon as he got out of the plane. He looked around and felt a little awkward in such a different environment.

Palestinian medical teams waiting at the airport in blue white uniforms with their humanitarian organization emblems appeared friendly. They welcomed Vienna with warm smiles and hugs. Head of the team, Dr. Layla, a friendly Palestinian woman, approached Vienna.

Dr. Layla: "Welcome, Vienna! We are so glad you could join us. We know this journey is long and tiring, but you will be a very meaningful part of this mission."

Vienna smiled and felt a little relieved due to the warm welcome. "Thank you, Dr. Layla's. I'm really excited to provide assistance to Palestinians in need."

They moved towards the bus that would take them to the medical team's headquarters. As the bus drove through the streets around the airport, Vienna began to notice the scenery around. The farmland is spread wide with olive plants, as well as the ruins of buildings that bear silent witness to the conflict that once struck this area. But there are also signs of hope, such as street art murals that reflect the determination and spirit of Palestinian society.

When the bus arrived at the medical team's headquarters, they were warmly greeted by other members of the medical team. Vienna felt quickly accepted and immediately introduced to everyone. He spoke to several other nurses and doctors who had diverse backgrounds and experiences.

One of the Palestinian nurses, Ahmad, approached Vienna with a big smile. "Welcome, Vienna! I am glad there is someone new on the team. We'll learn a lot from each other."

Vienna felt very appreciated and excited to begin its task. They hold initial meetings to plan for upcoming tasks and ensure that all medical equipment is ready for use.

Dr. Layla chaired the meeting, "We will focus on providing medical care to Palestinians in need. This is an important mission, and we must work with heart and spirit together."

During the meeting, Vienna listened attentively and felt moved by the determination of the medical team to help. They discuss their plans of action, division of tasks, and daily schedules.

After the meeting was over, the medical team began to prepare themselves for their tasks that would begin tomorrow morning. Vienna saw the spirit and sense of solidarity in their gestures and facial expression. They know that their job is very important.

Before going to bed, Vienna gets a room at the medical team's headquarters. Although simple, the room was comfortable and clean. He reflected on his long journey and felt grateful for this opportunity to contribute to humanitarian efforts in Palestine. In the quietness of the room, she felt more and more steadfast that her decision to volunteer was the right move.

The second day in Palestine, Vienna and the medical team were ready to begin their work. They set out for the conflict-affected city, with one clear goal: to provide medical assistance to citizens in need.

Driving a convoy of medical vehicles, Vienna sat in the back seat of an ambulance with Dr. Layla, who will be her partner in this task. They spoke while watching the scenery along the way.

Dr. Layla: "The conditions are tough, Vienna. This conflict has ruined a lot of things here. But we'll never stop fighting to help them."

Vienna: "It's absolutely devastating, Dr. Layla's. I can't imagine how the citizens here should live their lives in the midst of all this."

Dr. Layla nodded, "Yes, but that's why we're here, Vienna. We're going to give as much help as we can, and together we can bring about change."

They arrived in the center of the city which was severely affected by the conflict. Some of the buildings still standing have been badly damaged, with chipped walls and broken windows. Concrete debris was strewn along the road. Vienna could see a number of Palestinians clearing the rubble, trying to recover piecemeal.

They saw some temporary tents set up on the outskirts of town. Residents forced to flee their homes live in tents, trying to create an atmosphere of temporary homes amid the damage.

Vienna and Dr. Layla got off the ambulance, and they were soon approached by a worried-looking Palestinian woman. He speaks quickly in Arabic, and Dr. Layla translated.

Palestinian women: "We need medical help for our children. They're sick and there's no access to the hospital."

Dr. Layla: "Sure, we'll help soon. Please take your kids to our ambulance."

Vienna saw Dr. Layla was attentive and empathetic as she spoke to the Palestinian woman. They help move sick children into ambulances, where other nurses inside are ready to provide needed medical care.

For several hours, the medical team provided medical care to a number of Palestinians in need. They work diligently and sincerely, trying to bring a little hope and help in the midst of difficult conditions.

As the sun began to set, Vienna returned to the ambulance with Dr. Layla's. They saw a colorful horizon, and despite the damage all around, the natural beauty was still there.

Viennese: "I am moved, Dr. Layla, seeing the spirit and resilience of Palestinians in the midst of all this damage."

Dr. Layla smiled, "They are a source of inspiration for us. We have to keep working together to help them."

As they returned to the medical team headquarters, Vienna reflected on the experience of the day and felt that every little action they took could bring hope and change amidst suffering. Despite the city's appalling conditions, he believes that with his team's hard work and passion, they can make a meaningful contribution to helping Palestinians in need.