Masoud Awartani, a Palestinian restaurateur and peace activist, has passed away. Masoud was the co-owner, with his wife, of Zaytoon, a popular downtown Greensboro lunch spot.
Masoud's family and friends will gather to pray tomorrow at 5 p.m. at Anoor Mosque, at 1435 Lake Cottage Road, in Clemmons.
In one of the first stories I wrote for YES! Weekly, in early 2005, I shadowed the Awartanis as they loaded up their vehicle at the crack of dawn to set up their table at the Greensboro Farmers Curb Market. Among their loyal customers was a Jewish couple. That was only my first glimpse of the deep and abiding friendships the Awartanis nourished across divides of faith and politics.
Typical of those friendships, Rabbi Fred Guttman wrote on Masoud's website before his death: "May the One who is the creator of all provide you Masuoud, my holy brother, with a compete recovery. We are all praying for a miracle."
And Rabbi Andy Koren wrote, "Please know that your friendship has been one of our most important connections here in Greensboro.... Thank you for being our teacher and our friend."
Peace be with you, Masoud.
5 comments:
There are lots of tears across Greensboro today. A sadness down deep. Masoud, my friend, you will be so very missed.
Ina lilal wa ina ilayhi rai'oon.
Such a kind-hearted soul that I saw on a daily basis. His loving spirit will always be remembered and my thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this time of grievance.
Hello,
All the Awartani family would like to thank you for your words,
Thank you, and God bless you all.
Regards,
Mouath Awartani
God bless you and all the Awartani family, Mouath. We're very fortunate for your time in Greensboro.
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