As I sit here, gazing out at the Old City of Jerusalem, I can’t help but feel a surge of emotion. The past ten months have been a whirlwind of challenges, but the spirit of Israel remains unbreakable. Let me take you on a journey through my recent experiences in this remarkable country.
The Call of the Holy Land
It’s been ten months since that fateful day on October 7th. Many might wonder, “Why visit Israel now, in the midst of such turmoil?” Well, let me tell you, there’s no place I’d rather be. The love for this land and its people is so profound that it overshadows any fear or uncertainty.
When you’re here, you witness something truly extraordinary. Israelis, despite the challenges they face, continue to go about their daily lives with an infectious spirit. It’s no wonder Israel consistently ranks as one of the happiest countries in the world. If they can find joy in these trying times, it speaks volumes about their resilience.
Life After October 7th: A Nation United
Remember our educational videos filmed here just before October 7th? It feels like a lifetime ago. Since then, life has been turned upside down. But what strikes me most is how everyone, regardless of their profession, has rallied together for their homeland. I recently caught up with our tour guide, Yoni. Seeing him in his uniform, gun in hand, was a stark reminder of how quickly life can change. Yet, here we are, ten months later, still fighting the good fight. Sure, we’ve aged a bit (I’ve got a few more gray hairs to show for it), but our determination remains unwavering.
Family, Activism, and the Power of Purpose
You know what’s been my saving grace through all this? Involving my family in my activism. After October 7th, my kids were understandably shaken. But by including them in our efforts to spread truth and love, we’ve found a way to process the trauma together. It’s not just about posting on social media or making educational videos. It’s about empowering our people to have those crucial one-on-one conversations with neighbors, colleagues, and friends. That’s where real change happens.
Maintaining Resilience in Challenging Times
I’ll be honest, it’s not always easy to keep going. The emotional toll can be heavy. But I’ve found a few things that help:
- Embracing Shabbat: That weekly day of rest is a lifesaver. Without it, I’d probably never stop.
- Building a support system: Surrounding yourself with positive, uplifting people is crucial.
- Staying connected to Israel: There’s nothing quite like being here to recharge your batteries and reignite your passion.
A Message to Those Considering a Visit
If you’re on the fence about visiting Israel, let me give you a gentle nudge: Do it. Buy that ticket and get on that plane. The feeling of being surrounded by your people, witnessing their resilience firsthand – it’s indescribable. Don’t let fear hold you back. Coming here will change your perspective and renew your spirit. Trust me, you won’t regret it.
Looking Ahead: Exciting Projects on the Horizon
I’m thrilled about some upcoming projects we’re working on with Stand With Us. We’ve got some fantastic Tel Aviv-focused content in the works, and there’s something truly special that I can’t quite reveal yet. Let’s just say it involves paying homage to one of my absolute heroes. In these challenging times, it’s more important than ever to share Israel’s story with the world. Through education, advocacy, and a whole lot of love, we can make a difference. So, whether you’re planning a visit, sharing information with friends, or simply sending positive thoughts this way, know that you’re part of something bigger. Israel’s spirit is unbreakable, and together, we’ll ensure that light continues to shine bright in this remarkable corner of the world.
