Recently in a discussion with my good friend and fellow archaeologist Klaas Vasteenhuyse over coffee, he related a story to me that really puts things in perspective when dealing with an archaeologist and his/her tools. While sipping coffee, I excitedly showed him the new excavation trowels I received as a birthday present. Of course, the receipt of "trowels" as a birthday gift would probably be seen as an insult to anyone other than an avid gardener or an archaeologist.

Anyhow, my friend upon close inspection of the sharp edge on my trowel, remarked at how he brings his trowels to his grandfather for sharpening. This comment at first seems passing, but upon further elaboration he mentioned how his grandfather, who worked with his hands for his entire life, took much joy in sharpening my friend's trowels. The trowel represented a tangible tool, one that his grandfather knew and could relate to.

So, where am I going with this, you dare ask? Well, this little story best describes archaeology. The act of excavation utilizes the most basic of tools: trowels, wheelbarrells, picks, buckets, and much hard labor. But these tools represent only a portion of what constitutes archaeology. Archaeology is an intellectual activity, where the brain becomes the most important tool at our disposal. Thus archaeology represents a truly balanced discipline, consisting of a hearty group of rustic individuals who enjoy being outside and in the dirt, but who also enjoy the stimulation brought by intellectual discourse.

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Since "Tureah" hasn't yet arrived, we're going to delve deep into the memoirs of "Kim". Though such a statement might strike dread into the hearts of some, they'll just have to deal with it!  As I mentioned in my welcome, archaeology brings together a wide diversity of people, many of whom find themselves immersed in close quarters with other strangers. But the wonder of it all is that each of these "strangers" shares the inner desire to experience new and exciting things, thus providing a common ground.

My participation in archaeology has broadened this desire of mine to cross cultural boundaries. On my first trip to Israel two years ago, I wasn't quite sure of what to expect. But my worries were soon quelched by the comraderie and closeness that strenuous work, long hours and one's own feeling of "foreign-ness" brings. The true beauty of archaeology is that it links people of all nationalities, all religious backgrounds together in their shared interest in discovering and understanding humanity's past.

But as you board the plane, heading east towards the land where history lives, remember that upon your arrival it will be you who is the "foreigner". Be humbled by this fact, for it will make your experience all the more richer. Approach this trip not with the perspective of 'I'm an American (or "Westerner", since not just Americans can read this!) in a foreign country', but rather just think of yourself as a foreign guest who's visiting a gracious host. Be inconspicuous; recognize the differences between your own culture and that of your host, relish in the diversity. There is a world out there, full of new, exciting and wonderful experiences and I assure you that your trip to Israel will only be the beginning!!

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[ COMING SOON!!]

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