Israel

As I write this column in early August, Israel is engaged in a war, in an effort to wipe out terrorism, and establish security, and God willing peace, within her borders. It is probably a sad but safe assumption that the war is continuing as you are reading these words in late August or early September.

The events in Israel and the Middle East evoke many emotions in us–deep sadness that innocent lives are being lost and threatened each day; harsh anger at Hezbollah and others for their ongoing goal of killing Jewish people and destroying Israel; utter frustration that so many in the world cannot see the truth nor sympathize with Israel’s need to defend herself.

What can we do?

Those among us who are able to travel to Israel, to give direct support to our brothers and sisters, are to be commended. For the rest of us who will remain in the U.S., there are still ways we can be of assistance, and help overcome our sense of helplessness.

1. Send Money. I quote from our federation’s website, www.jfmd.org, which states that: Financial support of Israel at this critical time is urgent and very much appreciated. Money raised through this effort (the Israel Emergency Fund) will aid humanitarian efforts in Israel, including bringing thousands of young people from Northern Israel to safer areas, aiding the elderly and disabled, and offering support and trauma care for terror victims.

You can donate online via the website or by calling 248-205-2550.

Additionally the Friends of the Israel Defense Forces are collecting funds to provide care packages and other needs for soldiers. You can contact the FIDF at their website, www.israelsoldiers.org or by calling 248-203-2060.

2. Call and Email. Contact your family and friends in Israel daily, or as often as possible, just to let them know you care. The emotional support is vital to them. In return you will be inspired by their vibrant spirit, and you will receive up-to-date reports of the situation.

3. Get accurate information. Although it’s hard to avoid watching and listening to the American media, make an effort to read the news straight from Israel, such as The Jerusalem Post, which is available online at www.jpost.com.

4. Spread the word. When you hear friends, neighbors or even strangers questioning Israel’s actions in this war, have the courage to speak up and defend our brothers and sisters. When you see Israel misrepresented in the local media, write a letter to the editor. And when, God willing, Israel is portrayed positively and accurately, write another letter to praise the good reporting.

5. Say a prayer. Come to the synagogue a little more often than usual, on Shabbat and weekdays, as we supplement our regular liturgy with prayers for the soldiers and citizens of Eretz Yisrael. You can find a few different appropriate prayers at the website www.shefanetwork.org.

We hope and pray that in this New Year 5766 we in the United States, and our brothers and sisters in Israel, will be blessed with strength, courage and peace.