I am Heba Al Ba’bish, and I am doing my English Literature at Bethlehem University, Bethlehem and I am very much part of the Salesian Youth Centre in the same town. I love Don Bosco for many reasons. One of the reasons is my trip to Italy from 11 August – 19 August 2017, which was the most influential experience I’ve ever had this year. I was so lucky, and even blessed to be the chosen from the Salesian Community at Bethlehem to represent The Salesian Youth Centre in the International Youth Forum that took place at Colle Don Bosco – Turin, Italy.

There were a number of things I learnt from this forum; I got the chance to see the place where Don Bosco was born and died. It was an emotional experience having stood and prayed at the altar where he shed his tears (at Sacred Heart Church, Rome). It was at this juncture Don Bosco understood the famous dream at the age of 9 and its final fulfilment. Definitely I will cherish it all my life.

I had a lots of fun – learning Italian words, new dances and new songs, new friends, new places and above new energy – wow! Having new friends was just great – we are connected through social media. Going through Don Bosco’s life gave me a sense of humility and gratitude. I began to see life from an optimistic point of view.

I spent a few days in Rome which definitely enthused me from every side; All the roads lead to Rome – isn’t it true? On my way back I carry a lots of love and a renewed self. Of course I carry in me the Spirituality of Don Bosco. What more I need than to remain in his youthful dynamic love.