Tomorrow we will celebrate Yom Ha’atzmaut, Israel’s Independence Day. This annual celebration commemorates the creation of the State of Israel, and gives us an opportunity to marvel at all of her accomplishments while at the same time considering our many concerns about Israel’s present and future.
Here are a few articles that attempt to address some of the challenges and opportunities that Israel faces as we mark her 63rd birthday. As we celebrate the miracle of Israel’s existence and the importance of Israel in our lives, I encourage all of you to take some time today to read and think about these articles. In addition, try and find one small way to celebrate tomorrow- have a falafel for lunch, watch an Israeli movie, listen to some Israeli music, or buy some gifts from Israel online.
Appreciating, and Learning to Talk about Israel-JTS Chancellor Arnold Eisen http://www.thejewishweek.com/editorial_opinion/opinion/appreciating_and_learning_talk_about_israel
Tradition Today: Celebrating Together-Rabbi Reuven Hammer (Topic: Why one Conservative rabbi who made Aliyah to Israel chooses to stay and celebrate even amidst Israel’s challenges) http://www.jpost.com/JewishWorld/Judaism/Article.aspx?id=219402
Challenge and Responsibility on Yom Ha’atzmaut-Rabbi Daniel Gordis (Topic: Will Israel thrive, or eventually cease to exist?) http://danielgordis.org/2011/05/06/challenge-and-responsibility-on-yom-ha%e2%80%99atzmaut/
Do Israeli and American Jews Need Each Other?-Yehudah Mirsky http://www.jpost.com/Opinion/Op-EdContributors/Article.aspx?id=218888
As always, I look forward to hearing your reactions. Please join us on Shabbat morning May 14th as we hear about the Federation’s Birthright Program that sends young adults to Israel, and have a Kiddush featuring some delicious Israeli wines! Chag Sameach!!!