For anyone that loves Israel, this has been an extraordinarily difficult week. The combination of rocket attacks and mob violence has led to an absence of security- the most vital necessity in any society. And, at AMIT, unfortunately, we have seen the violence firsthand as two of our most inspiring educators were attacked by marauding gangs simply because they were out in Acco and Lod, their hometowns. I corresponded with our principal, Eti Zabari in Acco, to ask her if there was anything we could do for them. She responded, “There is no doubt that AMIT is a family both in Israel and throughout the world. We are rich because of you, our community who we rely on. With God’s help, Israel will win in restoring safety and stability.” No self-pity, no call to arms, just a simple recognition of our interconnectedness and reliance on God.
This morning I had the privilege of being part of an AMIT Israel special prayer service for the IDF and Israel with a message of support by Alon Davidi, the mayor of Sderot. Unfortunately, the reception wasn’t great as there were barrages of rockets to the South and many people had to run into shelters. Alon spoke about Ido Avigail, the six-year-old boy from Sderot who was killed by a rocket earlier this week. The funeral took place earlier today and the father, who is in high tech, spoke about how unfortunately he did not get the opportunity to spend enough time with his son because he was busy with work. He urged the parents at the funeral to cherish the time with their children and to realize how precious the moments are. Alon finished his remarks by noting that we at AMIT understand the impact of every moment we invest in every child. I believe that we do, but especially today, it is a lesson worth repeating.
It’s hard sitting here in the U.S. watching these events. But, as supporters of AMIT, you are not simple bystanders. By your words and deeds, you continue to show our Israeli AMIT family that you are with them and no matter where we live, we are one people. Am Yisrael Chai!
Shabbat Shalom and Chag Sameach
Audrey
