Mt. Hertzl: Shalom - Salaam; a prayer for peace

As the days get longer any recollection of what day of the week it actually is gets more difficult and it becomes hard to recall what happened when. While the Dead Sea was a nice aside from consecutive days filled with tears--both happiness and sorrow--our trip to Mt. Hertzl was no exception. The catalyst to another test on this emotional journey, recounting events of those who fought for Israel, both American and Israeli, was filled with pride and grief.

Brief interjection: when we attended our “rock concert” with Udi Krauss, I was really moved by his explanation of who Gilad Shalit is and what he has done and is going through. Singing, Salaam ( “Od yavo Shalom aleneiu…” a prayer for peace, while wiping away tears got me thinking: How can someone be punished for his or her dream, something simple enough that Americans take advantage of it every day? Why do those that I now know and care about, have to struggle?

Seeing and hearing the stories of those Israelis and Americans who have fought for (and continue to fight for) harmony, reminded me that I am lucky to live the life that I live every day. I connected personally with the story that one of our Israelis, Ben shared; it reminded me of one of my best friends who was also taken from this world unexpectedly. I thought of the many who risked their lives for their country and for hope and change. How can peace be “so easy” we don’t even think about it on a regular basis and such a struggle in this country? Doesn’t everyone deserve the right for peace? The continuous struggle to achieve a fulfilling, peaceful life is an every day fight for the people of Israel. And as of right now, there is no end, no solution. We will continue to see and hear about our brothers and sisters fighting for and losing their lives for what seems to be an unachievable means. How do we help? How do we make sure Israel can have her peace and keep it too?