History Repeating Itself

Dear Family and Friends,

For over three months, I’ve been hesitant as to whether or not to publish my thoughts on this topic.  It’s personal, painful and very sad for the 15 families of Netiv Avot,  a neighborhood of Elazar, who will be evicted from their houses on March 6, 2018.

This is occurring right here, less than a mile from my house, in my community.  It’s not personal only because it is in my community, but specifically because Liron, my grandson Amir’s wife is personally involved.

The story begins in 2000.  Liron’s family and three other families decided to leave their comfortable homes in Elazar and to move to a trailer, (a caravan), up to a hill that overlooks Elazar.  Why did they decide to do such an insane act?

During the years of  2000 – 2005 there was an intifada in all of Israel.  During that time there were shootings and other acts of violence.  Rocks were thrown from the hills that surround Elazar and on to the main road between Elazar and Efrat. The hill that Liron’s parents moved to was a strategic point because it lies in the center of Gush Etzion. Everyone knew that controlling that hill was crucial in the defense of the yishuv.  That was the motivation of the four families who moved there to guarantee that the hill would remain in Jewish hands.

During those years, the government supported this community by giving security, electricity, water and infrastructure.  But more importantly, the government promised these families and others that moved there, that the land will be approved for Jewish occupancy.

Meanwhile, the leftist organizations of Israel, like Shalom Achshav, Peace Now, have been trying to convince Arabs to apply a lawsuit to the Supreme Court, trying to show that the land belongs to them.  Until today, even after 3 three hearings at the Supreme Court, there is no proof of evidence that the land belongs to those Arabs contesting this land.   Even though there is no proof, the Supreme Court has decided to destroy 15 out of 42 homes,  because satellite footage from 1963 allegedly shows that there are very small strips of land, 3′ to 12′ worked  by an unknown Arab, that cut through the houses.  Some strips of land go through the house and some strips only touch corners of the houses, as you can see in the photograph below.

In the picture above, the land in the blue areas belong to the State of Israel and the narrow strips of brown land within in the blue, are lands that don’t have a clear ownership. On March 6, 2018 the homes are to be destroyed.  The Supreme Court has denied a request that only the corners of the homes be destroyed and has insisted that the entire structure be torn down.

Below, is another picture depicting the disputed land.

This unfortunately as sad as it is, is really a statement as to the dynamic that is occurring in the State of Israel.  There is a battle going on between the Executive and the Judicial as to who is responsible for legislating the laws of the country.  It is a further battle between the right and the left and between those who have chosen to live in Yehudah and Shomrom, and against those who still maintain that we are only “settlers” in an occupied land that we have no right to. Worst of all, it is a description of the operations of the government who have consistently promised that they would resolve this issue and guarantee the rights of those who live in that area and who have consistently gone back on their words and on their promises.  I should point out that that area Netiv Avot, Path of our Fathers, marks the place where our forefathers once walked and lived so many years ago.

The link below was made by the residents of Netiv Avov about the impending destruction.  It has English subtitles and the man representing the group is Ami Gvirtzman, Liron’s father.

https://m.giveback.co.il/?id=2556#/main?id=2556

There are 15 families and 65 children that will be homeless unless the government will find a solution for them.  All these procedures between the families and the government and between the families and the Supreme Court, take thousands of dollars in fees for lawyers, advertising and the right to protest.

Driving into Elazar these days, is a shocking sight.  The government is fearful of attempting to come into the yishuv in order to accomplish their mission.  They have therefore opted to build a new back road into the area so that they can bypass the main part of the yishuv.  Ironically, that road cuts through Arab land, but no one seems to care. In addition, there are members of Shalom Achshav and other organizations who visit the site frequently to make sure that this goal of displacement will be carried out.  Jew against Jew, Jew against the country, Jew against the government, another scenario from Gush Katif happening again.

Below are pictures I took from the top of Netiv Avot showing the wide road they are building to reach Netiv Avot from the main road.  The first picture shows vehicles travelling on Road 60.  Road 60 is the road that travels from the Gush north to Jerusalem or south to Hebron and Be’ir Sheva.  In the distance is Efrat.  The second picture shows the road in construction.

Road 60

Road to destruction

Please find the most recent article that addresses itself to this catastrophe.  Clearly there will be many more such articles as we get closer to the March 6th deadline.

https://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/241990

As I said at the start, I am clearly biased in this matter.  These people are my neighbors, machatanim and friends.  I have tried to present the facts as they are, but this is after all the third such evacuation occurring this year.  Had the government told the people not to occupy this land and their homes then it would have been a different story.  And even though one could argue that they knew that they were taking a chance by moving there, they were encouraged to do so with the granting of a total infrastructure.

May we only hear good news as we enter into Adar, the month of joy and happiness.

Shavua Tov

Vivien Well

PS Our grandchildren, Amir and Liron asked that those who wish to financially help these families are encouraged to do so.  The link is below and there is an option for English in the top left corner.

HeadStart is an organization for “recruiting the masses,” which will double the total amount of money submitted, only if the end goal is reached.  If not, all the money will be returned to the donors. There are only 12 days left to donate to HeadStart.

https://m.giveback.co.il/?id=2556#/main?id=2556

In advance, we thank you for your help.

Welcome to the Settlements – We’re the Originals

Life in Israel

It is with great humility, pride, enormous Hakarat Hatov and thankfulness, to Hashem that we celebrated our 9 year Aliya anniversary yesterday, July 8^th 2017.

On reflection, the 9 years have gone by so very quickly.  The hardest part of making Aliya is the reality that we moved away from most of our family.  We physically miss not living in the same city or being close enough to hop on a two hour flight for a weekend visit.  While Facetime and WhatsApp are great applications for keeping in touch and staying close, it’s just not the same as being able to give and receive those yummy, old fashioned, hugs and kisses.  Are visits are far and few between and we try to make it up the time when we are together.

We also miss our friends, especially those in our Skokie community.   We miss not being able to participate in smachot, or being there to lend our support during times of sadness.

On the other hand, we have had the privilege to watch our Israeli family here, (the Hymans, Nava and Josh, Yoni, Amir, Yishai, Michali and Orly) grow from babies to teens, from students to elite officers in the Israeli Army, and now to young married adults, and we couldn’t be prouder. It’s been quite an experience to watch our three grandsons come home in soldier uniforms carrying rifles, (so heavy that I can hardly lift them), going through a major war with them in Gaza, and hearing some of their harrowing stories. Michali just finished high school and will be starting her Sheurut Leumi this year, working in a facility that houses severely disabled adults, while Orly has two years left in high school.

We are continuously mindful that it is with Hashem’s blessings and the efforts of these heroic young boys and girls in the IDF, that we are able to live in this special Land.

We have also had the z’chut, to have my Mother, Z”L, live with us here for 8 ½ of these 9 years. She loved living in Israel, she made many friends and we are sure that her life was enriched by enjoying literally and figuratively “the fruits of the land.”

I believe that we are on a journey, a wonderful, intriguing journey that allows us the zechus to experience Israel.

One of the Many Only in Israel Experiences:

We saw this while driving in Jerusalem,

The first pasuk was written in big letters on the side of the bus:

•  “כי מלאכיו יצוה לך”          “Because His Angels will command to you”

and the second was written on the back of a cement truck:

• “אין עוד מלבדו”      “There is none like Him”

Somehow, through osmosis, one is drawn into the land itself, and especially to its history.  Especially here in the Gush.  For instance, when we drive by Sde Boaz, a hilltop settlement opposite Beit Lechem, on our way to Jerusalem, just the name conjures up the stories of Ruth, Naomi, Boaz and Megillat Esther.  This is exactly the area where they lived, owned fields and walked. (By the way Yael Gluck Margolin lives in Sde Boaz.)

Or again, when we pass the terraced mountains and see the very, very, old, crumbling, abandoned stone houses, some probably built hundreds of years ago, one’s mind starts to imagine our ancestors actually living and tending their sheep on those very hills. (Of course, not so much has changed when it comes to many of the sites we are “treated” to on a daily basis.  There are many times we are stopped on this major highway, Highway 60, to let shepherds and their flocks of sheep cross over the road.)

Flock of goats and sheep on the road.

Truthfully, I love the juxtaposition of living in 2017 and having to halt for the sheep! It always brings the feeling of amazement and a smile to my face.  There isn’t a day when we drive on 60 that we don’t see Arab men, women and/or children riding on their donkeys on the side of the road. I don’t  know how you would react, but for me it is jolting to see these donkeys laden with containers of water, pails and heavy sacks of grapes or olives hanging down from their sides.  This sight naturally makes me think of how it used to be and how simply people lived. And, add to that the Arab women walking on the side of the road wearing their black robes, completely covered, balancing big sacks on their heads and using two walking sticks in 100 degree heat!  Many times I’ve wanted to stop to take a picture, but because there are so many drivers on the road I thought it would be too dangerous.

And then there is a path called Derech Avot. “דרך האבות”  The Path of our Forefathers, is just another reminder that we are living in the Land the Hashem promised us and gave to us. We say it in davening every day and here, right in front of us is a path called Derech Avot upon which they walked from Hebron to Beit Lechem, to Jerusalem.   Then we read it in the Torah and it all just comes together and emphasizes our belonging to the Land.

And I’m living right here!  It is all very powerful!

Life in The Gush

Almost every day I wake up I am treated to  gorgeous blue skies and the copious sunshine that we are blessed to have, at least 300 or more days of the year. The brightness of the sun brings me happiness and hope, and within the consistently blue skies overhead, I see and feel both beauty and calmness. Looking out of my windows I am treated to the sight of Israeli flags flying, green lush gardens, vineyards and fruit and nut trees of unending varieties.  We have a non-stop show of beautiful, saucer-size roses, growing in our garden, like the ones shown below.

Fragrant Roses from my yard

It’s a great way to wake up in the morning! You really must try it!  In our yard alone we have about ten fruit trees and two nut trees that provide a blessing to both our eyesight and our palettes.

 

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When we moved here to Elazar, it was a much smaller community and the commute into Jerusalem, was maybe 10-15 minutes on the tunnel road. (I will elaborate about the tunnel road later). There were hardly any restaurants, decent shopping or grocery stores.  Now, not only has Elazar grown in size, but the entire Gush has expanded.  Efrat is in the midst of building at least 1000 more units on two hills, named Dagan and Tamar, we now have a mall with some very decent shopping options and restaurants. There is Stock, a huge store similar to Amazing Savings, grocery stores, bakeries, specialty bakeries, wine stores, a book store, lots of Shabbat take out places, home centers, a butcher store selling American cuts of meat, an art store, (my personal favorite), pet stores and lots more.  There is no need to run to Jerusalem anymore, since we can find anything and everything here.  The Gush communities Efrat, Neve Daniel, Elazar, Alon Shevut and Kibbutz Kfar Etzion, Kibbutz Rosh Zurim, including Tzomet HaGush, the large main intersection, offer all these kinds of shopping.  There is always something new opening up. The latest is a delicious sushi restaurant.

In many ways, our 9 years of living in the Gush is made up of a myriad of experiences. But being here, as the community has expanded and developed has given us the feeling that we are pioneers in our Jewish homeland.

Security

We go about our daily activities calmly, and although isolated incidents happen, everyone is on their guard and aware of their surroundings. Security in and out of all the communities is very tight, and Harvey jokes that we live in a gated community. Inside the communities it is very safe and kids go the parks themselves,  or to the store, teens and adults walk around freely, anytime of day or night. For sure, they are much freer here than they are in most any community outside of Israel.

The Arab workers who have permission to come into Elazar, for example, check in with the gate security guard, leave their ID papers at the gate and pick them up by 4 pm, not one minute later.  They are escorted to and from their work by a Shomer, someone with a gun, who sits guard over them while they are in the Yeshuv.

Talking about guns, it seems like everyone has one. Certainly all the soldiers have guns, both male and female and most men “pack heat” (wear guns on them).  Many women I know have their gun license and they conceal them in their bags. It is one of the things that takes getting used to, but one does.  We were told to get guns for security. I feel like I’m living in the wild, wild, west!

I’ll digress here for a moment.  Two months ago when Harvey went to Jerusalem for his gun license (yes you can laugh, but we have one too,) and thought that he had all the papers with him.  When he came to register, the clerk told him that his paperwork was in order but he didn’t pay yet, and for that he would have to first go to the post office. 

It was about 100 degrees out; the post office was at least 3 long blocks away.  There was a young soldier sitting nearby that had overheard the conversation.  The soldier kindly offered to walk to the post office to take care of this matter. Harvey was most appreciative, and the soldier returned within a half an hour, with the paid receipt.  Harvey offered to give him some money to repay him for his kindness, but the soldier refused. Harvey never even got his name.

Jumping ahead two months, this last Sunday night, we traveled south to Kiryat Milaki to take part in our grandson’s Shichrur, his discharge from the army.  Amir has been in the army for 6 years, 3 years for his regular service, 1 year he attended Commander School, and for the last two years he was the Commander of a platoon of men in the Elite unit of Maglan.  As the program started the three Commanders were called up on stage. There, standing on stage was Amir and two other Commanders of this 50 men platoon.  Harvey was speechless, when he recognized one of the three Commanders as the same soldier that helped him out in the licensing office in Jerusalem. That soldier, who by the way, has payot and grew up in a Chardal (ultra religious who are nationalistic) home, is a true Zadik!

And again I’m digressing… About 4 years ago, Harvey decided he wanted to purchase a gun to keep in our home only, for protection.  I thought that he was kidding, but a good friend took him to buy one.  What he bought wasn’t an up to date gun, but it was small and he was comfortable with it. When he went to the shooting range near here, the instructor shook his head and told him not to give up his day job! He had hit only half the targets.  You can imagine my level of comfort having it in the house!!!!!!  Thank G-d we never needed it’s use. Recently he decided to upgrade the gun and so he did.  This time he hit all the targets at practice and came home with a huge smile on his face. As I said before, I’m still at the same comfort level!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I will continue with the security issue in continuing blogs.  There is always so much to talk about on this topic.

Highway 60 – The Tunnel Road from Jerusalem the Gush

This two lane highway is used by the Jewish population, but it is also used by the Arabs.  I would ‘guestimate’ that 65% of the cars are Arab. Yes, 65%! Let me point out the these Arab cars and taxis are not the confrontational, Arab terrorists.  Arabs that travel this highway, want, for the most part, to live normal quiet lives with their families and go about their business.  Contrary to the media, most Arabs here, are very satisfied with Israel’s governance over them and would rather be under Israeli control than Palestinian control.  When we came 9 years ago, most Arab cars dated back to the late eighties and nineties, they were old and very run down. In the last five years that is no longer the case. They drive the latest cars and SUVs, because, no doubt, the NGOs (Nongovernmental Organizations) from Europe are pouring tons of money into upgrading, the “oppressed” Arab population.

This is an incredibly busy highway with cars, buses, and huge trucks speeding by.  Two new stoplights were installed at Elazar and Neve Daniel because people, literally, took their life into their hands, when they tried to cross the road or make a left turn out of the Yeshuvim. (In fact, unfortunately, three years ago there was a young teenager from our Yishuv killed on the road as she was trying to get across.)  Added to the traffic, is a mix of human and animal traffic. Israeli runners and bikers, donkeys and horses carrying heavy bundles all walking along the shoulder of the road. We’ve seen everything –  from a boy sitting in a car seat that was strapped to a donkey, facing the traffic, to an old Arab couple out for a donkey date. I guess the Arabs don’t have any enforced safety regulations on how a child’s car seat should be strapped to a donkey! Not an uncommon sight are old Arab women standing, with their bundles waiting for an Arab taxi to pick them up on the side of the road.

One of many laborers going to work in their field.

To say the least, the ride to Jerusalem is never quite the same. A good motto, is to expect anything and everything, and drive defensively.

I don’t know the rules of other countries, but in America, if an ambulance passes with its sirens blaring, rules dictate that we pull over to the side and stop. Here, it’s interesting to see what happens when an ambulance passes. Let me just say, that it’s easy to spot drivers who came on Aliyah, and those who did not!

 Current News Events Important to Know About

There is so much news coming out of Israel daily and I’m sending the links below.

• Again there is much unrest at the Temple Mount and because of the two police officers were killed last week.  The Security Cabinet decided to put in metal detectors, magnetometers, at the entrance. Of course the Grand Mufti and the Arabs are protesting and below you can read the story.  (The Grand Mufti of Jerusalem is the Sunni Muslim cleric in charge of Jerusalem’s Islamic holy places, including the Al-Aqsa Mosque. The position was created by the British military government led by Ronald Storrs in 1918. Since 2006 it has been held by Muhammad Hussein.)

http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/232789

• Now read the response in a letter to the Mufti. You will be quite surprised to learn about the double standards we live with and the reality here.  It was written from Baruch Marzel, a fervent Zionist activist, whose father was Shlomo Merzel from Chicago.

http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/232709

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• “Some 60 demonstrators gathered outside the gated entrance to the Knesset on Monday to protest the planned destruction of 15-17 homes in the illegal Netiv Ha’avot outpost.    

  If you remember I spoke about Derech Avot, Path of our Forefathers.  Netiv Avot is the part of Elazar that sits right next to Derech Avot. This article is about the looming destruction of homes, similar to Amona, right here in Elazar.  The government wants to take down 17 homes.

  Check out closely the aerial photograph of the Netiv Ha’avot outpost. The areas colored in blue were deemed by the High Court to be State land. The 17 structures that stand on the non-shaded areas have been sanctioned for demolition.   The area in the blue is State land, but the area in the The strips of land colored beige are claimed to be Arab land.  Because of those strips of land, the High Court wants to demolish the houses.   Ami Gvirtzman, my grandson’s Amir’s father-in-law.  lives here with his family.  He has been the spokesman for Netiv Ha’avot and his house is also pictured.

• What’s even more disgusting  to note, is that the Arabs complaining and claiming those strips of land, actually live next to Efrat, and service Eftat customers in the car wash business.

http://www.timesofisrael.com/settlers-of-netiv-haavot-outpost-fight-looming-destruction/

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• This article is about the uncompromising humanitarian aid that Israel gives Syria. In fact, Harvey’s hematologist is in his forties, runs a huge clinic of patients at Hadassah, but is still called into Miluim. When he reports to the army for his 2-3 week service, he leaves the hospital and heads up to the Syrian border to treat the wounded Syrians by night and Israelis by day.

http://www.timesofisrael.com/operation-good-neighbor-israels-massive-humanitarian-aid-to-syria-revealed/

 In Conclusion

I just want to say that it is wonderful to be back sharing our Aliyah experience with you through our eyes.  There are so many more stories to tell…To be continued…

I would love to hear from my readers, comments, suggestions, and/or questions welcome.

Shabbat Shalom

All the best,

Vivien

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Living “The Dream,” While Watching a Nightmare Unfold (Part 2)

continued…  December 11, 2015

Dear Family and Friends,

As we celebrate Chanukah in the Holy Land, the weather continues to be amazingly warm and sunny. Last Shabbat however, especially in the Gush, we were hit with a very short freezing spell overnight.

The Dud Shemesh, the hot water heater and solar panel which sits on top of all of our houses, froze during the night. In the morning when the sun started to beat down on the heater and panels, the gaskets popped.   They all popped around the same time, and we woke up to water gushing off everyone’s roofs.

Visiting the Mercas Ha’Ir, downtown Jerusalem, was very quiet, especially at Chanukah time.  But coming from the States, one can’t help but notice and appreciate, that the Chanukah theme fills the air. And of course, the Israeli favorite – sufganiot, doughnuts, are available everywhere you look!  Israelis love their sufganiot!

Sufganiot

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Meet Ben Goldstein

• Ben Goldstein is our neighbor and friend, from Memphis, Tennessee. Follow Ben on his Facebook page, as he gives a very real picture of his activities and his daily patrolling of the security fence of our yishuv. He is a very positive force in our community that makes a huge difference. With a generous smile and warm personality, he has ongoing classes in self-defense and helps people overcome their fear of how to fight back and the courage to stand up for what is right and good.

Scroll down his Facebook page and experience some of the things he is doing.  Specifically, watch Ari Fuld’s video on what Efrat is doing for soldiers stationed there since this violence started,  to say  “THANK YOU.” They have come to protect us by scouting out the Arab towns and villages to hunt down terrorists.  Also scroll down to:

• December 3rd Gloves. Fleece hats. Neck warmers. Our warriors at the Gush Etzion Junction should keep warm while outside protecting our Nation.
• November 29th  Entrance to Arab controlled Bethlehem.Check out the extreme misery under the “occupation…” Palestinian” plates on that poor Audi SUV...
• November 26th   Ari Fuld’s Video – Saying “THANK YOU”  to the IDF in Efrat
• November 19   Gush Etzion. Terror attack scene.
• November 3rd    Israeli Border Police helps bandage a wounded arab child that was injured by rocks thrown at IDF soldiers by his own fellow Arab Muslims…I guarantee you didn’t see this on your local news. ‪#‎Israel‬ ‪#‎IDF‬ 
• October 21st   I am thankful to the Israeli Nation for being incredible.  We all owe you our gratitude.

Deep inside the forests of Gush Etzion, people from all over are learning to fight back! Ben Goldstein, our friend from Elazar, started:

http://www.israelvideonetwork.com/deep-inside-the-forests-of-gush-etzion-people-from-all-over-are-learning-to-fight-back/

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Emails and notifications are being posted telling us how we have to stay alert.

• Anyone who has a registered gun, was told to carry it!

From Shabbat onwards, everyone registered to carry a gun, was doing so.

There was a great emphasis to register and buy a gun, take target practice and become familiar with the process. To comply with this, we now have a gun for protection.

• This letter was sent out from the Gush Etzion Council

תושבים יקרים!

Dear Citizens of Gush Etzion,

Our goal is to insure your peace and quiet, and continued development. At times, we also promise to never be sad. We won’t be sad because we know we are right, not be sad because at the end of the day, we will overcome and no one can stop us. Not to be sad, because the power of our unity is much greater than all of threats facing us.

We are now facing a wave of terrorism, a sequence of events and threats to our lives. A system filled with incitement which is encouraging terrorists to go out and kill Jews. An increase of terror attacks which the security forces are trying to stop.

Due to the events in the past few months, we can no longer afford to sit on the sidelines and wait for all of this to pass, things must change. We must stand up and make it clear to the terrorist leadership that their efforts will never succeed and only harm them. Together with other municipal leaders from all over Judea and Samaria, we are demonstrating in front of the prime minister’s residence, and together we are demanding that a change must be made in the way we use our own security forces and that the government should lift the building freeze in all settlements.

It is clear that our actions and pressure are helping, and that the prime minister is definitely showing signs of doing rather than waiting, but there is more to be done and we need each and every one of you to increase the pressure and force a change.

How to deal with what is going on?

We are in constant communication with the local military and police commanders. We are updated on all that is taking place in our area and we try to update you as much as possible. During the past few days, the army has gone into the local villages in order to conduct patrols and arrests, and more soldiers have been brought to Gush Etzion and are stationed in key positions.

We are pressuring the powers that be to install lampposts on the Tekoa- Herodian road. In the area of Beit Omar we are still waiting for a real response to what is going on there and we will not stop our protest until we see them start paving a new road in that area.

It is our job to increase our awareness of our surroundings and be careful while we are on the roads. There are few simple things we can do in order to save lives during emergency situations:

• Make sure that number of the emergency center is saved in your cellphone, the number is 1208.
• If you own a gun, make sure you are aware of the police’s rules of engagement and please act accordingly.
• If your car is not rock protected, please go to the municipality’s web site, request an אישור תושב and call up the center that deals with this so that you can be put the waiting list.
• Make sure that all the doors in the car are locked before you leave your yeshuv and try to drive with you windows closed.
• Driving slowly allows you to respond better to any unexpected events that might happen on the road.
• Keep a safe distance from the car in front of you while you or driving or waiting in traffic, this will allow you to have better maneuverability in dangerous situations.

In cases when your car has been by hit by rocks, fire bombs or has been shot at:

• Continue driving with both hands on the wheel until you are safely out of harm’s way.
• Call the emergency center (1208)
• Try and give the most accurate report that you can, what exactly happened and where did it happen, leave your name and phone number so that they can call you back.
• When you reach the closest military check point or road block, make sure to repot to them exactly what happened.

If your car is on fire, get out of the car as soon as you can, make sure all passengers are out as well and call the emergency center.

A passing car is shooting at you:

• If while you are driving, you noticed a car that is passing you and is intending to shoot at you, you should break as hard as you can in order avoid the bullets from hitting you.
• Right after you break, make a U-turn and drive away as fast as you can.
• Call the emergency center (1208) immediately and report to them where you are and what exactly happened.

A Stone road block:

• Avoid driving over the road block, your car may turn over or you make cause damage that will force you to stop driving.
• If there is now way to bypass the road block, stop your car as far as possible in order to soften the impact, and then try to drive away as fast as possible.
• If you can no longer drive your car, get out of your car and run away as fast you can.
• Report you’re location and the details of the incident to the emergency center (1208).

During the next few weeks, we will assist any yeshuv that would like to organize various workshops to help people cope with what is going on, and any other workshop that involve self-defense.

We ask that each family be in touch with the local emergency response team in order to make sure that their personal details are up to date (i.e. phone numbers and addresses).

If you were in the middle of a terror attack, even if you were not physically injured, you can be in touch with social security and they will help you get what psychological help you need.

• Please note that there is an anxiety hot line which you may call if you feel that you need support, their number is: 1-800-363-363
• In Efrat there is a mental health clinic which you can reach by getting a referral from your kupt cholim, their number is: 02-5670756
• In the event of something unusual, you can also approach the yeshuv’s social worker, you can find a list of all official social workers in the municipality’s web site.
• There is some reading material about how to deal with these situations and how to discuss this with your children; this material can be found in our website.

We are doing everything we can in order to insure everyone’s safety and security.

Your help and participation is very important. Please make an effort to join us for a major rally in front of the prime minister’s residence; it will take place on Tuesday at 7:00 PM.

שבת שלום

דוידי פרל

ראש המועצה

052-4239880

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Friday, November 27

So far we’ve counted 10 or 11 ambulances, actually, it’s very hard to keep track.  The minute we hear more than 1 ambulance siren, our radar is up, and we know another attack has happened.  This time, it was a car ramming into soldiers by Hebron.

http://www.timesofisrael.com/six-israelis-said-hurt-in-car-ramming-in-southern-west-bank/

We are living our lives cautiously, some with trepidation, some with resolve, and most of us with the feeling that this is our land, we will stand up and fight for what we know is right.

http://www.timesofisrael.com/terror-shakes-suburban-normalcy-of-gush-etzion/

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December 11, continued

The soldiers are from elite units and wear masks so as not to be identified.

GUSH ETZION JUNCTION

Soldiers stand ready, at every corner of the Gush Junction

The junction truly looks like a war zone.  As I write this article today, we have heard 4 ambulances go by.

http://www.timesofisrael.com/palestinian-driver-said-killed-as-he-attempts-to-ram-soldiers/

Gush Junction

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For not wanting to make this journal too long, I will continue in Part 3 about the road, our road, Route 60, where most of the incidents have occurred.

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In closing, I have the permission from my granddaughter Michali, to share with you a poem she wrote. She was witness to a terrorist attack on her way home from school, where a girl from Tekoa was killed near the Yishuv of Alon Shevut.

http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/187281#.Vmq0FezqTQo

 

HEAVENLY TEARS, by Michali Hyman (age 15)

Heavenly tears fall to our ground below,

Have we done wrong or is it you who feels sorrow?

My Kingly Lord, who I understand not,

Tell me, will there come a day when you untie my knot?

To finally understand why people die,

Do they live another life or is that a lie?

Are they at peace, with a smile on their face?

Or loved by those lost?

I don’t know, may never will.

All I know is; I am begging you, our G-d, as we say,

To protect those who did not live to see another day.

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As we light the Chanukah Menora, we are strengthened by the lights and warmed by the spirit of the Holiday.  It is our symbol that we, the Jewish people, will endure, and bring light and encouragement to the world.

All the Best,

Shabbat Shalom,

Vivien

 

Living “The Dream,” While Watching a Nightmare Unfold (Part 1)

Dear Family and Friends,                                                         Monday November 23, 2015

Mazel Tov, Mazel Tov! A Double Mazel Tov

Mazel Tov to our children, Nava and Josh Hyman on the engagement of their son, our grandson, Yoni Hyman to Rohn Lahav, from Pidual.  May Hashem grant them a long, happy, healthy life together.  We are so happy for them.

Yoni and Rohn

Yoni is presently at Hebrew University, studying for a Statistics and Actuary Degree, and Rohn is in Law School in Sederot. The wedding is set for March 30, 2016.

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and just 2 days ago-

Mazel Tov to our children, Nava and Josh Hyman on the engagement of their son, our grandson, Amir Hyman to Liron Gvertzman, from Elazar.  May Hashem grant them a long, happy, healthy life together.  We are so happy for them.

Amir and Liron’s Engagement

 

Amir is presently in the IDF, and Liron is at Bar Ilan studying for a Law Degree. A June wedding is being scheduled.

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“Living the Dream”

Yes, we are “Living the Dream,” living in this so very special and Holy Land, and yet we are witness to one of the most gruesome nightmares of all.

As you know, I always try to keep this journal upbeat and happy with news of the wonderful miracles that occur daily in front of our eyes. But, because of the facts on the ground, I want to share with you what we are experiencing daily and the information coming out of Gush Etzion.

We are all living in very trying times, whether spiritually, physically or emotionally. The events unfolding in Israel specifically, and around the world, are simply not to be believed, so while I started this journal soon after Succot, we’ve had some personal challenges that kept me from publishing it.   Please note the dates of this journal because they will be out of sequence.

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The sounds of the ambulance sirens, that we hear, maybe 5 or 6 or 7 times a day brings us all a sense of foreboding. When we hear the sirens, we immediately conclude that there was another terrorist attack.  And unfortunately we are right. This road, Route 60, a two lane highway, that comes up from Be’er Sheva, past Hebron, Kiryat Arbe, Gush Etzion Junction, Alon Shevut, Elazar, Efrat and Neve Daniel to Bethlehem and then to Jerusalem has Jewish and Arab vehicles. I would guestimate, maybe 6o% Arab vehicles, taxis, trucks, and 40% Jewish traffic. That is an enormous ratio of Arabs to Jews!

At the Gush Etzion Junction, they’ve installed over 20 cameras pointing in every direction, the IDF have soldiers stationed at the 3 bus stops, they have police cars in the area and still they have not been able to prevent the pedestrian car ramming, shootings and stabbings.

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On Sunday Nov 22, I was still writing about the horrific attack last Thursday night the 19th, when another stabbing happened, right here, 2 miles from my house.  A young woman, Hadar Buchris, was lying on the ground, her upper body and head were covered in blood. was stabbed in the torso and head and died on her way to the hospital.

Sunday stabbing

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Friday Nov, 20

News of the latest, senseless, terrible terrorist attack that happened here in the Gush last night, Thursday night, again has shaken everyone to the core.  We all travel these roads.  Many of you travel these roads.  We live here and this is where we want to be.  In fact, this is where we would rather be than anywhere else.  It is our country, our land and our heritage.

Our hearts and sympathies go out to the two families, (and all the other families who have died).  Yaakov Don, 51, a teacher of thousands of students in the Gush, a father of four, and a neighbor to many, who lived in the nearby Alon Shevut settlement was evacuated to Hadassah Medical Center in serious condition and was pronounced dead upon his arrival at the hospital and to Ezra Schwartz from Sharon, Mass., who died in the van.

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HaMakom yenachem et’chem b’toch shar avay’lay Tzion vee’Yerushalayim.

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Over Shabbat in Elazar

On Shabbat, two days after the terrible Thursday night terrorist attack, our friends came to visit. Hindy, the wife, explained how she was caught in the line-up of cars coming out of Alon Shevut, around 4pm in the afternoon. There is normally an annoying  back up of traffic trying to navigate the turnaround at  Tzomet HaGush, the Gush Etzion Junction.

All the while:

The terrorist was travelling on the Bet Shemesh road going towards Tzomet HaGush, when he first shot at the van full of boys that was coming from Bet Shemesh. The van full of boys was on their way to give food to the soldiers at the Pina Chama. The Pina Chama is a place where soldiers stop into for refreshments and to rest.  Those shots resulted in the death of Ezra Schwartz.

The terrorist then continued and drove further up the road and drove into the ongoing  traffic lane, next to the line-up of cars, where Hindy was standing.  He had a semi-automatic rifle and stopped at each car and shot into the car.  She was two cars behind the car in which Yaakov Don was murdered.

The terrorist continued further down the road, stopping across from each car. Two women from Elazar were sitting in their car, and when he shot into their car, the bullets went through both of the driver and passenger side windows without hitting them.  One of the women said she looked the terrorist in the eye, and he would have continued, but his gun jammed! It was truly a miracle.

When people realized what was happening someone got out of the line-up, made a u-turn and smashed their car in to the terrorist’s car.

Hindy was in shock and she and her car were cordoned off, around Yaakov Don’s car, because she was a material witness.  She said, even in shock, what she saw unfolding in front of her eyes was a Kiddush Hashem.  The way the medics, nurses, doctors, IDF, and police all handled the deceased, the motorists and herself was so special.  In her retelling of the story around our table, we all had tears in our eyes.

Yes, what you read in the papers or hear on the news is miniscule to what is happening here.  And then the Arabs have the audacity to write that we are planting knives on the terrorists that we kill, or that Abbas says we are attacking the Palestinians and they need protection.

Netanyahu said this today and it’s about time:

http://www.timesofisrael.com/netanyahu-idf-has-free-rein-to-fight-terror-in-west-bank/

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Opening up the Pandora’s Box of Smoke and Mirrors?????

I’d like to relate to you a conversation I’ve had with a very close friend this week, that will give you an excellent idea of what Israel, and the world perception of  Israel, is up against.

I promised her complete anonymity in relating this story, so will call her B.

B works in a place, in Jerusalem, where most of her co-workers are Arab. Most are nice, law-abiding citizens. They mostly have a very good working environment.  Theirs is a service oriented business, so they are frequented by an enormous mix of Arabs and Jews, young and old.

This place of employment, like any other, has busy days and not so busy days.  With down time, their conversations with each other are warm and friendly.  There are lots of smiles and good interpersonal relations.  They can talk about their families, their births, their weddings, their husbands, theirs wives, their children, the weather, their clothes, shopping, etc.  The one thing they never talk about is politics.

So, one day B decided that she would like to open the Pandora’s Box, just a sliver, to engage a younger and older Arab employee in a conversation about ” how interesting it is that in our working relationship we can be so friendly and cordial, but we never discuss politics.  Is it good or bad that we never talk about politics?” So she asked them the question.

To her surprise, the younger employee (28)  said, “No, there is nothing to talk about.”   The implication being, ‘you stole our land, you’re the enemy,’ and that was the end of the conversation.

The older employee (60), said, “Yes, of course, we can discuss politics,” and with that gave her a 15 minute lecture on how the Jews took this land from the Arabs, and how terrible the occupation is. There was essentially no listening on his part to any response my friend attempted to make. It seemed pretty clear that “dialogue” from the Arab’s point of view meant him speaking and us listening and being berated.

A variation on the same theme: One of the nicest Arab guys there, sweet, smiley and consistently helpful, posted on his Facebook page a video in Arabic with English subtitles relating the ‘true’ version of the Jews’ connection to this land. It told of a group of Europeans that were persecuted by other Europeans, and that is a very sad and bad thing. As  a result of this persecution a very large group of refugees came into existence and nobody knew what to do with them, so they dumped them on the poor Palestinian land and these refugees took it. Now, it’s true that we, the Palestinians, have nothing against these refugees and feel bad that they were persecuted, but why should we suffer as a result of that historical misfortune?! What right did they have to steal our land?

This narrative, which is so easily palatable to any ignorant western person because it rings “sympathetic” and not anti-Semitic, is quite simply based on a premise that is a lie. It denies any Jewish connection to Eretz Yisrael prior to 1945. It leaves no room for any Jewish heritage here, only this “Palestinian narrative” is valid. It is insidious because it actually denies our right not only to Judea and Samaria, but to Tel Aviv and Haifa, as well. But, if one does not know the truth – how easy to swallow this lie?

The bottom line of this anecdote is, that it makes not the slightest difference whether we have a seemingly amicable relationship, on a daily basis in the workplace, the reality is they are our enemies and they view us as theirs. It’s all just smoke and mirrors.l

So there you have it. This is what we are dealing with.  There is no give and take in a conversation.  There is no communicating or listening to another one’s ideas.  It is their narrative only, and the narrative of the world against Israel.

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My Love of this Land

At 10:00 in the evening, as I finishing this part of the journal, I hear training fighter jets flying low doing maneuvers over our houses.  Their presence brings me a sense of security and certainly pride!

I, personally, am the bearer of three passports,  British, American and Israeli.  I am the most proud of my Israeli citizenship.  I feel so connected to the land itself. I love this land.  The mountains, terraced hills, olive trees, speak to me. The continuous blue sky and hot sun brings me tranquility and envelopes me. The beauty of the land literally takes my breath away, and driving into Jerusalem, restores my faith, spirit and love of our people.   I especially take pride and give honor and Hakarat Hatov, (appreciation) to the soldiers who put their lives on the line day and in and out to keep us safe.  It is no easy task!

I pray that Hashem is listening to our prayers and helps us overcome our enemies so that we can continue to live in this amazing land he has given us, Eretz Yisroel, in peace and tranquility.

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All the best,

Vivien

(to be continued)

 

Reflecting and Connecting Before the New Year

To all our Family and Friends,

May this Rosh Hashana be a year of Good Health, Happiness, Prosperity and PEACE for you and your family.

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Celebrating our Eighth Year of Aliyah

It’s been a very long time, since I’ve posted a journal, and before the Yom Tovim seemed like the perfect time to start again.

With many thanks to Hashem, we have started our eighth, happy year of Aliyah.  Reflecting on these past 7 years, makes us ever so grateful that we made Aliyah. Our lives have been so enriched by witnessing the daily miracles we experience in this beautiful and amazing Land.

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I Am Israeli

You won’t believe what this man says about being an Israeli Jew.

by aish.com

http://www.aish.com/jw/s/I-Am-Israeli.html

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Monday, of this week, I wrote about our magnificent sunshine and bragged about our weather-

Israel’s Amazing Sunshine

Can you imagine waking up every single day to sunshine?  It doesn’t take much time to adjust to sunshiny days.  The reality of spring and summer weather in Israel,  is that people plan outdoor events knowing full well, that 99.99% of the time, it won’t rain. True, it was a scorching summer, but in all those weeks, only several days, maybe 5 or 6,  clouds floated across the sky.  The weather forecast is always the same; hot, hotter, unchanged, heat advisory,  sunny and hot, hot and humid, and so on.

Unfortunately for Israel, during this period of time we don’t have the necessary rain to put out some of the forest fires that plague us.

…but on Tuesday morning we woke up, to sickly looking skies and no sun!

Dust moves into Israel, bringing high levels of air pollution.

This is a satellite view of Israel under an enormous dust storm. It looks very ominous and believe me it was, and still is.

Unusual Sandstorm

This unsuspected  dust storm that descended upon us was dense and thick, and I don’t mean only on the outside.  We had left our windows open at night, and through the night a 1/4 ” of dust settled on everything.  The storm is made up of tiny, microscopic particles of sand, and the house looks like the storm came inside.  Quickly we closed the windows, turned on the air and started sweeping and dusting.  It was everywhere and it is here still. The first day of the storm was so thick that we could not see the house next door!

Below is a picture of  Jerusalem- Many people in the country were wearing masks, or just staying indoors.

We continue to be in the midst of a dust storm that has brought a heat wave and high humidity, but at least here in the mountains humidity level is low.

Writing in sand on porch table- day 1

Hopefully by Rosh Hashana we will be past this nonsense, and again the sun will shine!

Today, before Shabbat the sun is peaking through and the sky is a very light blue.

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Below is the Real Jerusalem Streets link to some wonderful pictures of Israel preparing for Rosh Hashana.  Enjoy

Jerusalem before Rosh Hashannah

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Dozens of Soldiers to stay on base for Shabbat and Rosh Hashana

 

 

Today, my daughter, Nava, received a text from her son.  He and 40 other soldiers who expected to be home for Shabbat and Chag were suddenly required to remain due to a military high alert status. The soldiers were understandably upset, thinking and hoping that they would be spending Rosh Hashana with their families. In order to raise their spirits, Nava’s son asked her to reach out to the Yishuv to see if people wouldn’t mind cooking and baking just a little bit more and donating it to the soldiers to enhance their Shabbat and Chag.  He knew that he could count on the community to open their hearts and homes. And that is exactly what happened.

Nava mobilized her What’s App lists and went to buy food and drinks. She even reached out to neighboring communities receiving phone calls from friends she has not yet met wanting to help.  I emptied out my freezer of all the food I had for meals.

 We are family, a community and of course that’s what we do, we help. The satisfaction I had of immediately being able to help, especially before Rosh Hashana, was overwhelming.  These brave soldiers, who are required to wear high boots, long pants, long sleeve shirts, with knapsacks on their backs, carrying rifles, doing maneuvers in the scorching heat and unrelenting sun, protect us every hour of every day, day in and day out. They deserve our love, praise and respect.  The least we can do, is

supply them some nourishing food!

Last night she delivered 15 huge pizza pies and drinks to the boys.  They were sooooo happy!

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Wishing you all a Shabbat Shalom and Kativa V’chatima Tova

All the best,

Harvey and Vivien

 

A Purim Potpourri – Happy Purim

 

Dear Family and Friends,

Purim Sameach

 

We are hoping that you will be celebrating a meaningful Purim with you loved ones and friends.  We will be thinking of all of you during this Chag.

 

No mission is complete without an Oketz dog (or dogs).

 

We have a wonderful grandson by the name of Yishai Hyman, who is in a special Elite force called Oketz. 300 young men try out for this unit, but only 30 are selected. Some of the many more intense subjects the soldiers specialize in are parachuting, urban warfare and counterterrorism.

Oketz has three types of dogs: Belgian, German, and Holland Shepherds. Most of the dogs are imported from their source countries at a very young age in order to ensure the dog is raised properly. The dogs are considered active in Oketz anywhere from the age of one to seven. After the combat dog reaches seven years of age, they become “civilians” and are released home with their last soldier-trainer.

In the war in Gaza this past summer, there were 4 Oketz dogs that died protecting our soldiers.  Though their death was a great loss, hundreds of soldiers were saved because of their actions.

Best friends for life.

 

Canine and Soldier – Sharing a Peaceful, Quiet Moment

 

 

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• Prime minister visits and prays at Jerusalem’s Western Wall hours before boarding flight to Washington, ahead of controversial Congress address

Read more: On eve of US trip Netanyahu maintains: ‘I respect Obama’ | The Times of Israel

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Netanyahu’s short video clip  before he boards the plane for Washington

http://www.jpost.com/Israel-News/Netanyahu-boards-plane-for-Washington-I-go-as-an-emissary-of-the-entire-Jewish-people-392539

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• Caroline Glick’s article: Column One – In Israel’s Hour of Need

“Netanyahu is coming to Washington because Obama has left him no choice.”

http://www.jpost.com/Opinion/Column-One-In-Israels-hour-of-need-392348

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• Purim and Politics

I am sure we can’t help but notice the parallels between the story of Esther on Purim to Netanyahu traveling to Washington for his speech. Below is a well written blog on those similarities.

http://blogs.timesofisrael.com/purim-and-politics/#.VPRdm5Sr5Sc.email

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•  Video: Mayor Barkat Catches Jerusalem Stabber

Arab teen terrorist wounds haredi man in stabbing attack; video shows Jerusalem Mayor tackling the terrorist.

http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/191678#.VPIiq5xTmbN

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• A Strategic Picture of Israel, Europe and the International Community

at the Centre for Jewish Life Dinner in London by Dan Schuftan,

Director National Securities Studies Center, University of Haifa

This is a brilliant analysis why Europe is crumbling and the other nations are helpless. I think it’s definitely worth your time to watch!

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h9ZQGiBubb0&feature=youtu.be

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• Last week we were hit with quite a significant snowstorm.   I know our winters cannot be compared to yours in the States, but for Israel this was another major snowstorm and it was a shocker!

First time sightings in the Gush were 10 tractors lined up ready to clear the roads. I had to stop to take pictures, and I found out later, many other people did too.

Snow plow lining up at Tzomet HaGush

And if your up for the challenge, this is the map on the cold and snowy front that came through last week.  This was the weather map they presented us with.  Can you find Israel on it?????????????? It took me quite a few minutes to get my bearings of where we were!

Where is Israel?

 

Dessert for the eyes

Judean desert blooms lushly

Videographer produces phenomenal clip featuring the region’s astonishing topography after rainfall

http://www.timesofisrael.com/video-depicts-lush-judean-desert-in-bloom/

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• 23 things you will only see in Israel.

http://www.israelvideonetwork.com/list/23-things-you-will-only-see-in-israel/

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A LIGHT UNTO NATIONS

• 2 Significant Advances in Cancer Detection and Treatment.  These are truly amazing!

1.  Israel’s InSightec is transforming the operating room with a new ultrasound technology that enables surgeons to destroy tumors and cysts without incisions.

http://www.israel21c.org/health/surgery-without-scalpels-or-scars/

and

2.   A mobile sniff-phone will detect cancer on a users breath.

 

http://www.timesofisrael.com/mobile-sniffphone-will-detect-cancer-on-a-users-breath/

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Wishing you all Chag Purim Sameach,

Pray for Shalom in the world,

All the best,

Vivien

 

 

Sent from my iPad

The Importance of A Day – In Israel and Globally

Dear Family and Friends,

Today February 16, 2015, was a significant day on the calendar both globally and locally.

Globally it was the day when the world discovered that 21 innocent Coptic Christians from Egypt were beheaded by ISIS, that radical Islamic Terrorist movement that kills, tortures, rapes and beheads any and all individuals who disagree with their goal and philosophy.

Locally it was a day when the Israeli Defense Forces said a fond farewell to their outgoing Head of Staff, Benny Gantz and welcomed in their new commander Gadi Eisenkot. It should be noted that the new chief comes from a very prominent and religious family that included many prestigious rabbinic figures.

As Benny Gantz  was reviewing his troops officially for the last time, he walked over to many of them to personally to say thank you.  He gave them a warm handshake, a kind smile, and wished them good luck in the future.  There was a sense of warm camaraderie between Chief of Staff and his fellow officers representing all units of the IDF.  It was very beautiful to watch this display of affection as they all stood outside in the warm Tel Aviv sun.  He was driven away, past people who were standing and lining the streets. The car stopped after it left the secure area and he got out of the car to walk with the crowd, again shaking hands and talking to people. His security team surrounded him very closely, as I’m sure they weren’t expecting him to  walk freely among the crowd.

On the face of it, one would say, that these were two random events that had nothing to do one with the other.  But that would be foolish thinking.  Israel is surrounded by jihadist elements who would love to celebrate its destruction.  Indeed, one of the primary principles that holds all of these groups together is their hatred for Israel and for the Jewish people.  Recent events in Europe, and Obama’s comments to the contrary, show how strong and deep and motivating this hatred really is.  Jews in Europe are afraid to show their Jewishness and Jews who visit Europe are cautioned to conceal their Jewish identities as well.

This is the reality that the new Chief of Staff of the IDF will have to face. He will have to look to the north and access the horrifying threat that is posed by Hezbollah and their patron saint, Iran.  And he will have to look to the south and access the threat that is continually posed by Hamas. He should know that opposed to the radical Islamic groups that receive a loving condemnation by the world powers, and especially by that gigantic drain on the tax payers called the UN, he will be scrutinized carefully by every European country, by every left-wing organization and by every left-wing newspaper to make sure that his actions comply with the letter of international law. How absurd and how frightening it really is.

I’ve included a cartoon that I think epitomizes the world as viewed by all of the above mentioned groups.

Obama’s imaginary world

One last point, in America today was also President’s Day.  Unfortunately it is a day that has lost much of its meaning and much of its importance. But if anything, it’s a day that reminds us that presidential leadership cannot be taken lightly. That not all presidents are worthy of the title, the office, or the responsibility.  I think that this has a message in that regard as well.

Connected to this last point is the upcoming visit by the Israeli Prime Minister.  There are those who oppose it and there are those who support it.  There are those who feel that it will backfire on him politically and there are those who feel that it will help him politically.  One thing for sure is true, Bibi Netanyahu has the guts to stand up for Israel, to call the radical Islamic movement by its name, to denounce it for what it is, and to explain to the world how Iran is behind all of this terrible barbarism.  Imagine what would happen if they had the bomb. He has the right to do anything in his power to warn the world!

Let’s pray for safety, security and peace,

All the best

Vivien

Every Mother’s Nightmare – “The Dreaded Knock on the Door”

Dear Family and Friends,

When my husband, Harvey, makes copies of his shiurim for his weekly Parsha class, he is greeted by our ‘maskira,’ the secretary of Elazar, Malka Kalangel. She is a sunny, accommodating, cheerful and efficient lady who always has a kind word.

On Wednesday night, Malka answered the knock on the door to her house.  It was that fearful and dreaded knock on the door, and that’s when the nightmare began!

The Kalangel family has lived in Elazar for many, many years.  My grandson Yoni, is like a family member, and spends much time in their home, as he and Captain Yochai Kalangel’s Z’L younger brother, Tamir, are best friends. Needless to say, Yoni was in shock with tears and disbelief when he heard the news. Yoni said that the only thing he can do, is to be there for the family.

The entire Yishuv is in mourning. Everyone is feeling the loss.

• Fallen soldier’s mother: ‘I always feared the knock on the door’

http://m.jpost.com/HomePage/FrontPage/Article.aspx?id=389467

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• This letter was written by my friend, Helena Orenstein, who attended the funeral at Har Herzl for Captain Yochai Kalangel, z’l. It is her very touching and heart-felt emotions, that she felt impelled to put into words when she returned home later that day.

Thoughts On The Funeral Of A Soldier

ב”ה

This morning, for the very first time since I came to live in Israel, I went to Har Herzl for the burial of one of our soldiers, the son of a family who live in the same Yishuv as us, Yishuv Elazar.  He, Captain Yochai Kalangel, הי”ד,  and another soldier, Sergeant Dor Nini, הי”ד, were killed by Hezbollah in the recent spate of fighting taking place on the Lebanese border in the north of Israel.  It is hard enough to hear of someone you know losing a child, a soldier in the line of duty defending all of us, however, it is taken personally as a loss to all of us who live in Elazar.  Yochai Kalangel, הי”ד, left a pregnant wife, a small daughter one years of age, four brothers, a mother, a father, and extended family; uncles, aunts, cousins, friends he made throughout his life, men and women he served with in the army, the people amongst whom he lived after he married, in Har Gilo, the families he grew up with in Elazar, and all of Am Yisroel.

When a person is killed serving in the army, defending all of us, we have all lost someone close to us.  We don’t sayברוך דין אמת , we say ה’ יקום דמו –  Hashem should avenge his blood.  It is not a normal death; it has taken place in battle.  Har Herzl is a cemetery dedicated to those who have fallen in war.  It is very well cared for, which shows honour and respect for the dead.  Unfortunately, where I stood during the funeral, most of the graves were for soldiers of twenty and twenty-one years of age – far too young to be lying there.  Two of the soldiers had dates of death in the month of Nissan, and the thought occurred to me that soon their families would be coming to visit.

The service for such a funeral is very formal, and I suppose it has to be, because, if there was no structure to such a service, I think, it would all “fall-apart.”  People come in their thousands.  You can’t actually see what is taking place because there are so many people, but you hear it through loudspeakers.  It doesn’t detract from the solemnity of the occasion or the dignity, because we are all standing together, however far we may be from the actual burial, and sometimes it can be very far.  We are still all there, we are all in mourning for a young man, taken away from us, far too young, leaving a young pregnant wife, and a small child.  Various Rabbonim spoke trying to find words of comfort for the family. The Chief Rabbi of the IDF conducted the service.  A representative of the Chief of Staff spoke, the divisional commander spoke, members of Yochai’s platoon spoke, telling Yochai how much they loved and respected him, and not to worry about his family because they would care for them.  These were the same members of Yochai’s platoon, who after he was attacked and killed, went and stood over both bodies, so that Hezbollah would not be able to steal them, so that there would be a burial.  Unfortunately this unspeakable act of removing the dead bodies from a battlefield has happened before, and is even more heart-rending for the family as they cannot bury their dead.  Yochai’s father spoke and said it shouldn‘t have happened this way; a son is supposed to bury a father, not the other way around.  Yochai’s siblings promised to take care of his wife and family; they told him not to worry.  We were all privy to these private messages and endearments, and we all cried for them and their loss.  Then Yochai’s mother came to speak.  We all hope and pray we will never have to discover where her courage and stamina came from to do that, but you can understand completely why she would want to have these last few words with her son.  Whether she realises it or not, in years to come, she will be comforted by the fact that she took this opportunity.  Her cries and tears of anguish cut right through to your heart.   I am certain that there wasn’t a woman or a mother present who was not crying both with her and for her.  She was suffering a pain so sharp, so deep and intensive, it resonated in the inner core of all of us, and echoed throughout the cemetery.

Wreaths were laid, as is the practise at military funerals, prayers were said, and then the service ended.  We all left, people hugging each other for support; wishing each other that next time we meet it should be for a happy occasion, a Simcha; our heads filled with our thoughts on what had happened and why it had happened, but what we must do next is clear.  We must visit this family during their week of Shivah.  We must comfort them as best we can, and we must all say Tehillim as we always do when our soldiers are fighting for our safety, security, and peace of mind.  We must pray and give charity for all our soldiers in whatever way we can, and, hopefully, together, we will receive the answer we seek.

“Hamakom yinachem etchem b’toch sh’ar aveilei Tzion v’yerushalayim” (Prishah 393:3)

“May God comfort you (amongst) the other mourners of Zion and Jerusalem.”

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Shabbat Shalom and Pray for Peace

All the best,

Vivien

 

 

It’s All About The Oil

Dear Family and Friends,

Wishing all of you a Chodesh Tov!

This article on the subject of oil, was written immediately after Chanukah, when the topic was reported in the press.  Sorry it didn’t get to print earlier. The background is a picture of the helicopter pad of the Tamar Oil Field.

Israeli Mediterranean Oil Field

Helicopter pad on Tamar Oil Field

• Into the Light

Last week, throughout the world, Jews finished lighting Chanukah candles. The holiday was a joyous time and we all rejoiced because of the heroic efforts of the Maccabees, and the miracle of the oil  in the Temple that lasted 8 days. For us, the lights symbolized victory, gratitude, radiance, appreciation, warmth and happiness.

I remember, as I was staring into those eight lights on the very last day, it occurred to me that while we daily witness miracles happening all around us, there is one enormous miracle that should be noted.  That is the miracle of, OIL

The Economic Miracle of Israel’s

             Natural Gas Fields

Israel, within the last few years has found a tremendous amount of oil off the Mediterranean coast, so much so, that the cost of our water, electricity and gas is starting to go down.  The economic advantages for Israel are huge.

And while Israel is facing a devastating oil spill in the Arava (Negev), they are working hard on providing a solution, which is of course the Israeli way.

http://www.jpost.com/Israel-News/New-Tech/Hebrew-University-scientists-hope-to-provide-solution-for-Arava-oil-spill-cleanup-386323

• Into the Dark

The saying “he who has the gold (oil) makes the rules!” has been with us for years.  We have been manipulated by the countries that produced the oil. Until now!  In the last few months the price of oil and gas has dropped down to more that half. The countries that it affects are going into bankruptcy, leaving them in darkness, despair, anguish and gloom.

  The dependence on “Black Gold”  as it is known, is in free-fall.  Oil is no longer king and the countries of Europe, Asia, Africa, United States and Australia that depended so heavily on it are becoming energy independent.  Take Russia, who in their arrogance thought that they could get a foothold in Middle Eastern politics, started cozying up to Egypt, Iran (selling them missiles and arms) and Turkey with the idea to help solve the Israeli/Palestinian problem.  Iran, on the other hand, who has threatened to annihilate us and the world at large with their nuclear bombs,  is now facing economic collapse due to the dramatic downturn the of oil prices.

…The drop in oil prices is believed to be the direct result of a form of “economic warfare” by Iran’s arch-nemesis, Saudi Arabia, which flooded the market with its own oil reserves late last year… The Saudis are very fearful of Iran and their nuclear threats.

• What does it mean for Israel?

The collapse of the price of oil on the global stage will have an enormous effect, for the good, on Israel.

The problem with the drop in the oil prices for Iran, will make it a financially impoverished country. The country will no longer be able to support Hezbollah, IS, Syria and others.  Iran will now have to negotiate over its nuclear program with American, which in turn, will get America off Israel’s back not to bomb Iran. Hezbollah on the Lebanon border is a grave threat to Israel. Hezbollah in Lebanon, knows, that if Israel should have to go to war with them, Israel will destroy them. This an important reality because they will realize that their ‘sugar daddy’, Iran, will not be capable of financing them to rebuild their army.

For us living here, we are already feeling the effects.  Our electricity and gas prices for the cars have gone down.  Not a dramatic effect yet, but they have gone down.  Last month we were paying over $100 to fill our car with gas, now it is slightly less. (Now 2 months later we are seeing a dramatic drop in oil, water and electricity).

So the changes in the world price for fuel is a game changer leaving these rogue countries too poor to be threatening us diplomatically or militarily. Let’s pray that the miracle of the oil continues to be the shining beacon of light to a more promising future.

http://www.timesofisrael.com/russias-economy-could-collapse-in-months-says-financial-forecaster/?utm_source=The+Times+of+Israel+Daily+Edition&utm_campaign=ad60a2f419-2014_12_27&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_adb46cec92-ad60a2f419-54774837

and (the best headline of all…)

Report: Hezbollah Nearing Bankruptcy

Hezbollah’s woes worsen as Newsweek report claims Lebanese terror group on the verge of bankruptcy after oil prices plummet.

http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/190116#.VL9gR57fK1F

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January 21, 2015

• Op-Ed: Changing the Rules of the Democracy Game in Europe

Dr. Mordechai Kedar

Dr. Mordechai Kedar is a senior lecturer in the Department of Arabic at Bar-Ilan University. He served in IDF Military Intelligence for 25 years, specializing in Arab political discourse, Arab mass media, Islamic groups and the Syrian domestic arena.

“Change the rules in Europe and change them now.”

http://www.israelnationalnews.com/Articles/Article.aspx/16303#.VLtYCJ72u_o

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• On Brave Women and Ultra-Orthodoxy

A very rare, never done before and “unorthodox” reality is happening here in Israel.  Ultra-orthodox women have decided that they are smart, articulate, talented, can help solve Chareidi social problems and need their own platform to be able to express themselves. They want a stop to the discrimination against women having no say. Since they have never been, and never will be included in any of the election parties, the exclusively male-dominated Shas and United Torah Judaism, they decided to form their own.

Their trailblazing party is called -Bezuchtan, (in their merit).  They said if they will be included in the ultra-orthodox parties they will drop their party status.

http://www.timesofisrael.com/ultra-orthodox-women-unveil-bezchutan-party/

http://www.timesofisrael.com/ultra-orthodox-women-launch-election-campaign/

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

• On Men Maintaining Their Status

Clearly there has been a strong reaction from the Chareidi community against women organizing to form their own political party in the Kenesset. The women have been warned, either overtly or by suggestion that their children will no longer be allowed in Chareidi schools, that they will have difficulty finding shiduchim for their children and that they themselves may be subject to excommunication.  We are waiting to see what the response of these brave women is, and whether in the end anyone in the Chareidi community will stand up to support them.

• New Female Hareidi Party Threatened with Excommunication

B’Zechutan founder Ruth Kolian explains Chareidi social problems behind her campaign – is told ‘Chareidi society won’t accept your sons.’

http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/190229#.VL9lUp5qdFI

and

http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/188361#.VL91npscQiA

<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<

A Blog about the Vanishing Woman

This very interesting blog just appeared in the paper today.  It is written by an Orthodox, American Israeli, mother. The title says it all.

http://blogs.timesofisrael.com/vanishing-women/

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•  PA Tourism Ministry Replaces Israel with ‘Palestine’

This is our answer to peace?

http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/190227#.VL9lCZ453W5

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• Development of new tunnel-detection system progressing, IDF source says

http://www.jpost.com/Israel-News/Development-of-new-tunnel-detection-system-progressing-IDF-source-says-388399

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• Trader Joes will be called ‘Trader Yosef’ here in Israel!

Trader Joes was one of the stores I enjoyed shopping at, before making Aliyah. Israel is now opening “Ehad” (meaning One), its own version of Trader Joes in Ra’anana.  This new chain of stores will incorporate the same trademark that makes shopping at Trader Joe’s such a happy experience; that of  lower prices, products not usually found in other stores and their own unique full line the freshest produce, tasty breads, toppings, sauces, chocolates, etc. Hopefully it won’t be long until it makes its way to Jerusalem and the Gush. The real treat will be whether all their products are kosher.

http://www.jpost.com/Israel-News/Trader-Joes-style-discount-market-Ehad-to-debut-in-Israel-388245

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Be well and pray for peace,

All the best,

Vivien

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Reality of Truth and Lies!

Dear Family and Friends,

The Truth about – The Truth

“If you tell the truth, you don’t have to remember anything.”
― Mark Twain

 The truth always remains the truth.  When one tells the truth, there is no fear of mixing up stories, times or events.  Telling the truth, although sometimes uncomfortable and hard to accept,  frees us from hiding behind any hidden anxieties or agendas. Truth clears the path for us to learn, function at our best and be productive, ethical human beings. Being honest and truthful clears our conscience, our hearts and our minds.

The Truth about – The Lies

“History is a set of lies agreed upon.”
― Napoléon Bonaparte

“All people know the same truth. Our lives consist of how we choose to distort it.”
― Woody Allen

Lies on the other hand, always change.  Lies are a network of interwoven stories containing false facts and scenarios.  Lies can grow to gigantic heights, they become debilitating, conniving and destructive because they are based on deception and betrayal. Lies lay heavy on the heart while the brain tries to rationalize, always being afraid of exposure.

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The Free Speech, Unity Peace Rally in France

This week we saw a unity in France, unlike anything else we have ever seen.  As I was watching it, I thought to myself, how brazen it was of Abbas to be in the front row, 4 0r 5 people away from Netanyahu.  Abbas looked so defiant, as if he were the statesman of the century. Why was he there and what is a terrorist doing at an anti-terror rally? Didn’t he just praise all the ?martyrs? who kill Jews in Israel? Didn’t he just call for Jihad?  Doesn’t he align himself with all the terrorist organizations? What is this all about? Even Hamas wondered what he was doing there.

His own organization glorifies terror and terrorists. If you’d like to see what they feature on their Facebook page, click below.

http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/189842#.VLSxQp65KiF

So herein lays the truth about the forever, perpetuating lie.  Netanyahu at first was not invited, but he told them he was coming, as a representative of a free country and to show solidarity with France and the Jews. France decided to then invite Abbas, perhaps the most ?moderate? of all the terrorists, outwardly but still a terrorist.

Here is a peace rally against extreme Islamic radicalization and anti-Semitism, and he was invited to the rally.  He epitomizes corruption, deception and lies. Wasn’t the rally also about free speech? He is the head of the Palestinian Authority, whatever that is, and I can assure you not one Palestinian is allowed to speak freely and say what’s on his mind!

http://www.timesofisrael.com/pmo-confirms-france-opposed-netanyahus-attendance-at-paris-rally/

and

Netanyahu Rained on France’s Parade (Thank God)

Our cable channels carry the following  international stations, Fox News, CNN, BBC, Bloomberg, France 24, SKY news, (England) and Al Jazeera, the Arab broadcasting network.

Interestingly, all the channels carried Netanyahu speaking in the Paris synagogue memorial service, even Al Jazeera!

Netanyahu speaking in Paris Synagogue

http://www.jpost.com/Diaspora/WATCH-LIVE-Hollande-Netanyahu-at-Paris-synagogue-for-memorial-service-387401

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French Jewry 101 – Primer

This link below is a wonderful primer, (or Cliff Notes, for those of you that remember them) on French Jewry 101;  it’s about Jews in France from the time of Rashi to Dreyfus to today. I found it short, comprehensive and informative.

http://www.timesofisrael.com/french-jewry-101-from-rashi-to-dreyfus-to-hyper-cacher/

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On – I’m That Jew

•  This blog was written by a man, describing what it means, to him, to be a Jew. It think that it represents Jews globally, so I wanted to share it with you. With the unprecedented rise in anti-Israel and anti-Semitism, the essence of our being Jewish is under constant surveillance and attack.  I’ve done some editing to it and I hope you will not find it offensive.

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“I’m that Jew. That writing Jew. That footnote citing Jew. That academic Jew, that scholar Jew. That thinking Jew, that let me tell you something Jew. Worker Jew. White collar Jew. Blue collar Jew. That tend the flock and herder Jew. That calloused foot and hand Jew. That roam the barren sands Jew, that tills and works the land Jew. That old Jew. That new Jew. That makes the desert grow Jew.

That always trying to make things just a little better Jew. At the same time don’t mind if I’m a self-centered Jew. I’m that self-serving Jew. That persistence sweat it out Jew. That I made it big because I earned it Jew. That give me what I want because I know that I deserve it Jew. That arrogant Jew. That humble Jew. That whatever Jew I’m in the mood to be Jew, just like you. That oh yes I’m just getting started here Jew.

I’m that Israeli Jew. That Indian Jew. That English Jew. Caribbean Jew. Sephardic Jew. And Arctic Jew. I’m that American Jew. I’m that Ashkenazi blonde-and-blue-eyed no I’m not a Shiksa Jew. That New York Jew. That LA Jew. That South African, Australian, Ethiopian, Russian And French #JeSuisJuif Jew.

That proud of being Jewish Jew. The Zionist Jew. The Haredi Jew.  The Agnostic Jew, The Judas Jew, at forever running Jew. That whenever we’re murdered you probably think we had it coming Jew. But still not afraid to wear my Magen David Am Israel Chai Jew.

I’m that feeling the world has gone mad and damn it I want to get off Jew. That way too much horror in the news everywhere I turn Jew. That fed up with Boko Haram Boston Marathon Lindt Cafe Pakistani School Children killers and I’ve had enough of radical Islam to last me a lifetime Jew. That they’re killing too many of their own but somehow we always get sucked into that Jew.

I’m that you don’t want to hear this but I don’t give a care what you think Jew. That you’re just gonna have to deal with it Jew. That I’m not afraid of you Jew. That bullied in high school because I was rocking a yarmulke Jew. That thinking that we run the world Jew.

I’m that Iron Dome cheering fan club Jew. That where were you when missiles were raining down on Tel Aviv Jew. That UN today equals Useless Nations to me Jew. That let’s fight if you have a problem with me Jew. That desperately wanting to live side by side in peace with you Jew. That get to know me and you’ll see we’re not so bad like they make us out to be Jew. Bingo. I’m that “who knew?” Jew.

I’m that needing to explain Jew. That let’s figure it out together Jew. That questioning Jew. The never, ever just one answer Jew. That contemplative Jew. That Rabbi Akiva Jew. That Einstein Jew. That Freud and let me tell you something about you and your mother Jew. I’m that shelf sagging with Nobel Prizes Jew. That brilliant scientist Jew. That astronaut Jew. That inventor of the device that’s part of your everyday life but you don’t even know it Jew.

But I’m also that let’s laugh it up Jew. That Larry David, Mel Brooks and Seinfeld Not That There’s Anything Wrong With That Jew. I’m part Irish part Bill Maher in your face Jew. I’m that Scarlet Johannson, …… AND smart Wonder Woman Jew. That Natalie Portman Harvard Actress Director and Princess Leia’s mother Jew. That Fiddler on the Roof with some Joseph Gordon-Levitt on the Tonight Show thrown in Jew.

I’m that lox and bagel noshing Jew. That falafel and hummus eating Jew. That couscous, schnitzel, latkes and matzah ball soup Jew. That don’t dread the dreidel Jew. I’m that only liberal democracy in the Middle East Jew. I’m that became a refugee when my ancestors were kicked out of Arab lands Jew.

I’m that political Jew. That activist trying to build bridges and bring communities together Jew. That fighting (and dying) for civil rights Jew. That female rabbi Jew. That will eat a Big Mac but won’t eat bacon Jew. I’m that wandering Jew. That looking for the truth but don’t want any trouble Jew. That just want to marry my wife under the chuppah and break a glass under my heel Jew.

I’m that Merry Christmas, Ramadan Kareem, have a good whatever you’re celebrating Jew. I’m that Hindu high-fiving, Sikh fist-bumping, Christian loving, Muslim friend-having, Jainism, Buddhist and Baha’i wanting to get to know you better Jew.

I’m that soldier turned olive branch holding Jew. I’m that IDF soldier Jew. That put my life on the line for my land Jew. That proud of my country Jew. That Magan David Adom Jew. That Zaka Jew. That Hatzolah Jew. That first responder to crisis Jew. That put three bullets in my back but you won’t kill my dream Jew. That yearning for peace Jew. That willing to compromise practically anything except my survival Jew. That Hatikva singing with a tear in my eye Jew. That secular but loving my heritage Jew. That I’ve never been to Israel but I’ll get there someday because it’s my homeland Jew. That almost 6000 years and I’m still standing Jew.

I’m that spare me your anti-Semitism Jew. That standing up to you Jew. That I’m sick of your double standards Jew. That fighting for my rights Jew. That won’t be silent anymore Jew. That learned from my forefathers Jew. That number one and number six million and every number in between Jew. That learned from what happened to us in the Holocaust Jew. That never again Jew.

…….I’m that Stand with Us Jew. That thank God there’s a pro-Israel lobby Jew. That not afraid to say that one million marching in France is just a start Jew. That father to an amazing son Jew and soon to be father to another Jew. That married to a wonderful woman Jew. That having great parents who worked hard so I would be happy Jew. That having incredible grandparents who suffered so we would survive Jew. That down with anybody who digs my values and respects people who just get it Jew.

I’m that wish there were more of us Jew. That creative Jew. That business Jew. That tailor, baker, wedding singer Jew. I’m that anxious and of course I’m worried Jew. That paranoid Jew. That everything’s got a reason for being why it is and I’ll keep looking for the answer Jew. That writing this to all my Jewish brothers and sisters Jew. And to those who aren’t Jewish but show me love I’m writing this to you too with utmost respect Jew.

I’m that everything’s going to be okay because there’s no other choice Jew. That hang in there and keep your head up Jew. That human dignity will prevail and the world is made up of decent people Jew. And that believer that the decent people will win in the end Jew. Not a wishful thinking Jew.

Just a true, Jew.”

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All the best,

Vivien