Watching the events unfold over the last few weeks in Israel and the demonstrations and the discord that have ensued, hasn't been easy. Along with the political divide that the politicians and media could do much more to contain and defuse, there have been a few very painful terrorist attacks in which siblings and others were killed which have served as a reminder, as to the never ending external threats that Israel and the Jewish people face.
As much as I try to minimize how much news I consume and focus on purposeful and meaningful pursuits, the recent divisions have hit a very raw chord for myself and so many others.
It is truly painful and upsetting to watch the rift, and every day I pray that this will end soon. I am confident that G-d willing, this will be overcome and dialogue that will lead to constructive change and reform, will pave the way forward.
Yesterday some of those demonstrating against the Judicial Reforms marched through the city of Bnei Brak. Instead of a counter demonstration, the residents of the city set up stands to welcome the protestors and give out Cholent, Bottled Water, Snacks and also setup music on the street for all to enjoy.
One moving video clip that was shared was sad on the one hand yet so uplifting and hopeful on the other.
In the video, the protestor who was obviously on a motor bike and was wrapped in a huge Israeli Flag, stopped on his bike, as the beautiful melody of Shalom Aleichem played in the streets of the city. He takes off his helmet, and begins to sing along and sobs as tears stream down his cheeks, as his mind seems to take him to another place and another time.
The words of “Shalom Aleichem” “Peace unto you” were sung by him with so much passion and feeling, and it was hard not to get caught up with his strong feelings and passion.
He told others around him, that the song reminded him of his father who always spoke about “Ahavat Chinam”, “Love for no Reason”. He said, that it was this longing and message that overcame him, as he heard this song being played in the streets of Bnei Brak as different opinions and perspectives, milled around together in a friendly manner and without confrontation.
This video and its tears, pain and hope are a powerful reminder of the fact that we are all one people and are brothers and sisters in the truest sense of the word.
Our strength comes from our unity, our resilience comes from our understanding and respect of our fellow, and our hope comes from our faith.
Our greatest asset is Shalom and Unity. This doesn’t mean everyone has to agree, and we can passionately agree to disagree, but in the end of the day, remember that these are opinions that we disagree with, not the person, for the person I love and respect.
As we say in our daily prayer Barcheinu Avinu Kulanu KeEchad, “Our Father, bless us all as one”.
May we all strive to learn, listen and respect our fellow, even if they think radically different than us. It will make us wiser, kinder and more mature, and this attitude will help us bring internal unity, peace and the blessings and strength that come with that.
Thank you to the unknown biker who stopped to sing and cry. I know that your heartfelt tears and song inspired me and so many others with hope, faith and a reminder “Ki Achim Anachnu”, “we are brothers” and that this will help us overcome any divide.
Shabbat Shalom / Good Shabbos
Yisroel