Lag B’Omer is looming and with it the annual trek by thousands to Meron which last year witnessed a fatal stampede facilitated by inadequate infrastructure and uncontrollable crowds, writes Michael Kuttner…
This year hopefully improved safety enforcement and manageable numbers will ensure that those who celebrate this occasion will do so safely.
With Pesach and Ramadan behind us expectations for a return to a quieter period could be expected. However, as we know only too well, there is never a dull moment in this part of the world.
Uncertainty still threatens the world economy but almost miraculously, Israel, despite the forces arrayed against it, is still meeting the challenges with success.
COEXISTENCE IN ACTION
Despite the best efforts of those who use violence to further their despicable aims there are many examples of Arab / Jewish co-operation and mutual respect.
These situations are naturally never reported in the international media because they might shatter the false stereotypes promoted so assiduously.
Here is an example of one joint enterprise which may be unheralded (pun intended) but nevertheless is perfect proof of coexistence and tolerance.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tPunRiJcir8
BDS BUSTERS
Despite frantic efforts by BDS supporters to get bands, artists and cultural groups to cancel visits to Israel we still welcome a large number of these performers who are flocking to Israel to perform, usually to sell out audiences.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FRlFRoP13qY
DID YOU KNOW?
Often the avalanche of negative news about Israel conceals amazing realties.
Here are five facts which might not have caught your attention.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q1DeL0MjpW0
WHAT ACTUALLY IS ZIONISM?
The Jewish national movement means many things to many people.
For some it is a dirty word and for others it is a modern day miracle.
Watch this video and perhaps learn what the Jewish return to Zion is really all about.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OpDfzf7sSA0
Michael Kuttner is a Jewish New Zealander who for many years was actively involved with various communal organisations connected to Judaism and Israel. He now lives in Israel.
[This article was originally published on J-Wire and is reproduced here with permission from Michael Kuttner.]
