Although we are back in the US, we are holding our breath along with all our friends and family in Israel as tensions mount between the Palestinians and the Israelis. We were fortunate to be in Israel during a time of relative calm. We know that our friends and family in the US were worried for our safety, but in reality, we never felt in danger. It's always different watching something from afar - the news agencies always report the worst or blow things out of proportion.
It is different this time. This time there are things to worry about. Rockets are threatening Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and even close to Haifa. We have friends who are running to shelter upon hearing the sirens. People we know are reminding their neighbors how long they have to get to a shelter - 15 seconds to 2 minutes - not very long in any case. We will check in more often, pay closer attention, and cross our fingers and toes.
We have always tried to remain neutral on this blog, to stay above the political fray and to share our experiences good or bad. We had many wonderful interactions with Arab Israelis, all of whom are grateful to be living in a country that allows them to practice their own beliefs; some of whom are in (or have children in) the IDF. We hope that those friends and neighbors are safe as well.
Even though we are grateful to be back in the US, we also feel somewhat guilty for being here while our friends and family are going through these troubling times. It's hard to watch the news and see places we love under fire. Here's hoping for an end to the violence and a return to a stable (if not peaceful) situation.
We have always tried to remain neutral on this blog, to stay above the political fray and to share our experiences good or bad. We had many wonderful interactions with Arab Israelis, all of whom are grateful to be living in a country that allows them to practice their own beliefs; some of whom are in (or have children in) the IDF. We hope that those friends and neighbors are safe as well.
Even though we are grateful to be back in the US, we also feel somewhat guilty for being here while our friends and family are going through these troubling times. It's hard to watch the news and see places we love under fire. Here's hoping for an end to the violence and a return to a stable (if not peaceful) situation.
Shalom
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