Israel At 60

Each one of us, at one time or another, may find the need to retreat from something or someone we love, albeit, a person, a hobby, (such as writing words or music), or an opportunity. Often hibernation can become infectious, and we may become prisoners of our own minds or bodies. Perhaps an event or a happening will re-charge the batteries and allow the spark of light to flicker once again, even if only for a brief moment. For me, the occasion to resurface and write became re-kindled upon hearing that the State of Israel is going to turn 60 on May 14th.

As Jews, we become accustomed to the passage of time sprinkled with dust that turns into fear, as we recall our tumultuous past dating back more than 2000 years ago. Although the story line may be the same, the people, and places change. We are being fought, enslaved, persecuted, murdered, forced out of our many diverse countries, to be met by even more challenges and adversities. And just as the pattern of facts are essentially the same, so are the conclusions: we emerge strong, determined and often times better human beings for what we have had to endure in the process. For Israel, this sequence of events is truly dramatic, where a country, which is geographically, perhaps two hours in distance from one side to the other, (although one would think it were the size of China when reading about it in the newspapers), continues to prosper and thrive even in spite of the fact that it is a place surrounded by enemies. To think that this small state, which has been beaten down, tattered, made to withstand every kind of violence towards its citizens and its children, continues to stand strong is great cause for celebration and joy. Who among us would have thought that this milestone anniversary would have been celebrated 60 years ago?

Nevertheless, this writing is not about politics, nor the challenges that we as Jews must face in our daily lives, no matter where we live. What is to be conveyed is how majestic the power of Israel is, and what this state means to me.

When my husband and I decided to make our first trip to Israel in August of 2006, thrusting ourselves literally in the center of the Lebanon war, family and friends thought we had lost our minds. Who would want to experience the Jewish state for the first time when the country is at war? What about our safety, our welfare, and the list goes on and on. There is always some element of fear about traveling to Israel, a country which is potentially at war 27/7. For me, it seemed that although it may not have been the best time to go, it was clearly the right time, and the Israelis were so honored, and generous with their words of praise, often thanking us profusely for having the courage to make the trip, especially at that time. If the truth be told, it was my husband and I who reaped the many blessings and benefits of traveling there, and continue to be thankful for our life-altering trip.

Most of all, Israel is about feeling and experiencing a sense of connection, of belonging, of knowing that one is exactly where she is supposed to be, her feet touching the soil and feeling the immense power of the land. When I went walking on the beach in Tel Aviv each morning, it was like looking into the faces of the dead, seeing aunts, uncles, grandparents resurface once again in the land of milk and honey, with smiles on their faces, and unmistakable twinkles in their own eyes. As it turns out, going to Israel, at least for me, was a life-changing experience, and one which continues to impact on daily decisions and actions that are made here in the United States.
What does this all mean? Well, if anyone would talk to co-workers, each time I appear with a new dress, pair of shoes, purse, piece of jewelry, anything truly, the conclusion is the same: it was made in Israel! In addition to creating a unique fashion statement, it feels as if I am threaded to a community that is so far away, yet so close to my own heart. Small acts such as buying goods from them, or sending money for universities or charities to be used there can make a huge difference. What does it do for me? In this moment, it absolves some of the guilt and pain that is felt for not living in Israel, sending my own children there to fight for the homeland, live among their people, or starting a business there. For today, this is the best that can be done, and it keeps everyone connected in some beautiful way.

A heartfelt mazel tov to you, Israel! My prayer and wish is simple in words, but perhaps a bit more complex when cemented in reality. May G-d continue to protect and safeguard you, Israel, in everything that do, from the setting of the sun from one day to the next. May you as a State continue to prosper, stay strong and grow and contribute to the world as you do, touching the heart and soul of everyone who feels your presence in some unique and special way or another. And, in the true tradition of our people, may you continue to live to be 3000.

Thank you for your minds.