By Michael Kuttner…
Following Yom Hazikaron there is an instant switch to the celebrations of Yom Ha’Atzmaut.
In the week prior to this day butchers are inundated with orders from all those who are preparing the mass barbecues which are a feature of this day’s activities.
Parks and picnic spots are usually filled with extended families and friends and the smell of burnt offerings wafts throughout the country. It is a time, however fleeting, when communal conviviality prevails.
Usually there is a 99% chance that the weather will be fine and balmy which means that this annual ritual can be enjoyed by the masses.
A RARE BIRD
There are black sheep but until recently nobody had seen a black flamingo in Israel.
Among the pink flamingos resting here on their annual migration bird watchers were excited to see for the first time a rare black species.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o4nhWnQQggc
RESILIENCE AND RESOLVE
Unreported by the main stream media are the incredible stories of how young Israelis are moving to rebuild communities devastated by the 7 October 2023 pogrom.
As the rest of the world has already forgotten about the tragic events of that time pioneering youngsters in Israel are preparing to rehabilitate and reinvigorate these areas.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ELMt5YdpVjw
L’CHAIM
The ancient Jewish blessing of “to life” is exemplified by the restoration work now being undertaken in vineyards devastated since 7 October 2023.
Israel’s pioneering spirit and determination to restore lives can be seen in all parts of the country.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NOKESIXrlr8
A PROMISE FULFILLED
We are returning and rebuilding in the face of terror, arson and hate.
Chag Ha’Atzmaut Sameach.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JbaqWxH_S88
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.]
