For a while, Vik had a favourite taxi driver in Gaza City: Abu Mahmoud. Vik would call abu M when he wanted to go somewhere within the city. Abu M would pull up in his beaten-up taxi, way past its working days ( a personal car, as most “taxis” are in Gaza) and drive Vik off.
A few times, some of us joined Vik at a local outdoor cafe, to drink coffee or lemonade, smoke Shisha, and type away on our laptops (wi-fi).
Abu Ms taxi was unique, certainly not in its run-downedness, but in its glowing heart. Vik was entraced by it, so was I. Abu M was pretty proud of his heart. Most taxis in Gaza are adorned with hearts and teddy bears (seriously), but Abu Ms glowed.
I keep remembering things about him, but for the moment and posting a number of links, other peoples words or videos of Vik.
Yalla!
Dismay and sorrow in hometown of Italian activist
From the place he loved, in memory of Vittorio.
Vittorio and Israel’s attack on the Intellectual Intifada
Man shot with live ammunition during protest for Vittorio
Salafi leader: Islam prohibits murder
Thank you Eva for this, really it brought me to tears, Bless his soul and bless you all for your hard work you do in Gaza. Lots of love Jannah and Mazen.