So much talk about walls these days. Walls to keep people out, slow people down and keep people in. Some walls are so big you can see them from outer space. Some walls are made with bricks and others are made with the subtlety of a look that says, “stay away”. Walls. In the simplest sense, they are designed to divide and sometimes for good reasons like protection, but the effect is still the same, separation. And while a blank wall is a canvas to a spray paint artist, I think the real reason they get marked with all manner of “art” is because they can make people feel trapped and it’s our nature to resist being cornered.
This was my headspace as I approached the Western Wall in Jerusalem. The Western Wall, aka: the Wailing Wall, contains the only remnants of the 2nd Temple built by King Herod. It abuts the temple mount (Dome on the Rock) and is one of the most holy places for Jewish worship. The Jews believe that the presence of God never leaves the wall and in writing petitions on little slips of paper and placing them in cracks of the wall, God will respond. Did I do it? Of course, I did. As I wrote my slip, I looked at the wall and thought, “isn’t it ironic that I’m writing requests on behalf of my friends, loved ones and myself that involve removing obstacles. They involve dismantling walls, and I’m placing it in a wall.” Likely not that ironic at all.
I also don’t think it’s ironic that the city that hosts this holy wall is under a political debate that involves walling parts of the city. I don’t pretend to understand the detailed history of this debate, but this is a small space, and in my limited opinion, I just don’t see how walls serve anyone here. My hostess Lily lives here and did a fantastic mini-documentary on the topic that really enlightens. And for those who might be concerned about safety visiting here, this video will help to ease your fears.
Where’s the writing regarding your walls? Is it on a slip stuck in a crack, or has an artist written on your wall for you and the rest of the world to see? Do your walls serve you or have they imprisoned you? Perhaps it’s time to give your walls “the slip”….