Speaking with Forked Tongue

Pessach has always symbolized renewal in many aspects. We celebrate our freedom as a nation, we celebrate Israel and many other wonderful gifts. It starts the season of spring, a time of renewed life and hope. It is a time of new beginnings in many ways, and we pray only for goodness.

Now that the new Government of Israel is settling in, we are seeing how the world is gearing up to deal with them. The US has also redesigned its diplomacy towards the new Netanyahu led government. There are already unconfirmed reports stating that the Whitehouse, under the Guidance of Rahm Emanuel and David Axelrod are working on a plan to blackmail Israel into giving up the Jewish heartland of Judea and Samaria. Under the guise of assistance against the Iranian nuclear threat, the US will assist only if Israel relinquishes its hold on these regions, again this has yet to be confirmed. Another interesting statement making it’s way to the press is that Mr. Emanuel says that in four years there will be an arrangement between Israel and the Palestinians, including the eviction of the Jewish residents of Judea and Samaria, no matter who is Prime Minister of Israel, of course showing total disregard for the democratic state of Israel.

This is very consistent with the strategy and attitude Mr. Emanuel has used in the past. He is a brilliant adversary, who will stop at nothing to achieve his goals. By exploiting the fact that he is an observant Jew, and that his father was a fighter in the “Irgun”, he has managed to pull the wool over the eyes of the majority of Jews throughout the world. I don’t have a problem with this, as I expected no less. Mr. Emanuel has quite the reputation among his peers for having no limits when it comes to succeeding. Simply put, he is a political genius.

I have learned much in my recent travels. I have met other “Irgun” expat victims of the early government of Israel under Ben Gurion/Rabin and Peres. The story is always the same, the discrimination they experienced, the humiliation they had to put up with, which of course lead to these heroes of the Jewish people to abandon their homeland in disgust and deep rooted despising of the Jewish country and the leaders I just mentioned. How can we expect the children of these heroes to act any different regarding Israel? The country that took so much out of their parents, that hurt them so much, of course revenge is on their mind, whether consciously or not. What child would behave differently? Unfortunately. Mr. Emanuel doesn’t realize that the people he will be hurting most are those that revere his father and others that share the same past. In a sense he is actually disrespecting his fathers former dreams and taking hand in the murder of more Jews, something that his father and friends gave their lives to prevent.

We read how Mr. Emanuel orchestrated the handshake between Rabin and Arafat, an act that helped push the Oslo travesty further along and caused even more death and destruction to both Jew and Arab in Israel. Mr. Emanuel, What is your goal? Obviously, Israel’s security is not on the agenda, what about US Security and Integrity? Now that the US is bowing down to everyone, and reaching out to those that only wish to change the West, the question remains, what are your plans?

By pressuring Israel to give up the Jewish Heartland he is becoming a tool of not only Israel’s enemies, but those who despise the US also. He is capitulating to terrorism and to those that support it. How much longer until Hamas leaders begin to frequent the Whitehouse? I am sure this is not his plan, but this is what is happening.

Too many conflicting messages are coming out of the US government. It seems that “Change” indeed has come, and Israel is where it will be felt worse. The pre election chatter of how the Obama administration will stand by Israel’s side doesn’t seem to be that accurate, yes they will be by Israel’s side, but they will stand idly by, and will assist Israel’s enemies accomplish their dreams of cutting the Jewish country in pieces. It appears that someone has been speaking with a “forked tongue” regarding the Jewish Country. Regarding Iran, on one hand they claim they will help Israel put a stop to Iran’s devious plans for the price of sacrificing our heritage, and yet the other hand wishes to tie Israel’s hands in defending itself.

I admit to fear when we in Israel put our security just in our Governments hands, or trust in others to come to our aid, neither side, left or right has learned how to deal with the problem, and lately is constantly looking to be the good puppy of the Whitehouse, instead of being a good and strong leader. I expect Binyamin Netanyahu and his team also to capitulate in record speed, as his agenda seemingly differs from that which he preaches, I pray I am wrong. I go so far as to beseech our new Prime Minister to be strong, as he knows to be, and to follow that which he knows inside to be right, and not do whatever he can to join the “club”.

The distorted amount of attention given to the Middle East is already ridiculous, the US executive branch must focus on what is really happening in the Middle East. If the current US administration is interested in “Change”, it must first look to itself. “Change” comes from within. There is a popular saying regarding how the politicians in Israel act, it says simply, “ We don’t see from here, what we see from there”, or we simple citizens don’t understand what really is going on, we only pay the price.

The world has far to go, and I do not accept that Israel is to blame for the situation in the Middle East. The only harm that Israel causes is its continued existence in the Jewish homeland, this, Israel is guilty of. Everyone has an opinion and usually chooses a side, Mid-East advisors must learn to be above it all and see the real picture. If they come to the conclusion, that Israel is simply a pain in the ---, then so be it, but that does not mean that the US must join in the fight against Israel. Israel will learn to take care of itself. If the Jews living outside of Israel choose to abandon Israel, we will learn to deal with this also, their loss.

A strong and unified Jewish people and Israel has proven to be the most efficient weapon against Islamic terrorism, which is the number one threat in the world today, it is a pity that Israel is being treated as the criminal while societies that embrace the murder of children of being supported. This says much about how the current administration is being run and the values it deems important.

I would like to extend an Invitation to Rahm Emanuel and David Axelrod to come out to Judea and Samaria and see it through different eyes. Not the eyes of politicians, not the eyes of people who have engaged in terror and murder, but through different eyes. The eyes of the people who live here, the same eyes, like yours, who share the past here. Spend a Shabbat with us and see a love and dedication that your fathers spoke of. I am sure you will understand better. Your views will change, it won’t be in line with the voices of Saudi kings and other Arab leaders who are guided by hate, but you will at least get a more truthful picture, and that, if you have the courage, you may bring to the world.

This last day of Pessach celebrates the crossing of the Red Sea, we read the “Song of the Sea”, where the Children of Israel praise Gd for taking them out of bondage and destroying their enemy. It celebrates the beginning of Israel as a people, and leads into the receiving of the Torah, which continues to shape the world till today. May we be granted the same miracle and joy that our ancestors experienced and see our enemies crushed and continue to strive for a better world.

The Culture of Cowardice

Once again, Israel buries another child victim of an Arab terrorist, or militant as world media calls it. If we look at the results of most of these attacks we see that most of the victims were unarmed and a surprising amount of them are children. Schools and children are of course their favorite target, along with school buses leisure areas and so on. These perpetrators are terrorists, and their culture is one of cowardice, it is simply who and what they are. Throughout Israel’s years of existence, and before, the Arabs have for the most part attacked those that could not defend themselves, it is who they are.

What does that say about those that support them? Any Israeli, even the most extreme left-winger knows that Israel never intentionally targets civilians. Yes, innocents die in war, people die in war, and war is the human failure. However, how we wage it is how we are judged. No one has advanced the technology of terrorism greater than the P.L.O. or Palestinian Liberation Organization and their offshoots. They taught us great lessons in this modern era, how maiming and torture are still efficient weapons against humanity, how the use of children as shields are efficient tools in the media, or how to attack those who are defenseless and vulnerable. No one has grasped this strategy more than they have.

Years ago, an Arab co-worker of mine from Hebron said to me that “we would never defeat the Arabs because we are not cruel enough”. He went on to explain that if a member of an Arab family is hurt or killed, they revenge the attack by slaughtering the entire family of the murderer. He further went on to say, that the Arabs know that the Jews would never do this, and this gives them motivation, and they see this as a weakness. I agreed with him, and said that we as a people are not capable of such cruelty on a one to one level. I was surprised at his analysis stating, that if we were able to respond as they, there would be peace in the Middle East.

Arab strategy has never changed, since Israel’s early years, our civilian population have been targeted by Arab artillery, on all fronts. Arab snipers made Jerusalem resident’s lives hellish, and those living on the border learned the meaning of “Fedayun”, a predecessor to the P.L.O.. Growing up like this has forced us to become one of the premier military forces today, yet never did we turn into the murderers that they have become, as we remain the Israel DEFENSE Force.

I am reminded of my years as Security Chief of the Shilo region during the Intifada, how the favorite target were school buses and women, or families traveling on the road. Sickening how those that murder the defenseless are regarded as heroes in their society, and yet how they become the leaders. Is it no wonder why their system of education can’t change? If their leaders and heroes are murderers of women and children, how can we expect any more of their general public? Who else do they have to look up to?

I must be rhetorical at this point and ask, how is it the peace loving people of the world hold their hands out to such a people, and endear them to the point of blind faith?

I feel sorry for them, those of them that pray for change and rejoining the human race often have to hide for fear of execution. Those that seek true peace are forbidden to speak up and those that do, disappear quickly or escape to a better life. This leaves the imposters, the present “Palestinian Arab” leadership that continues to dupe the naïve and ignorant of the world, convincing them of their striving for a peaceful coexistence with the Jews of Israel by means of a future “peaceful” Palestinian State.

Well so it is, and so it will be, once again showing us that we only have only ourselves and above to depend on, as the just of the world have declared self exile on themselves.

Terrors greatest product is that of fear. It is the means to their success, they wish to breed fear among us. They are achieving the opposite in Israel. The more terror they reap, the more our children strive for excellence in the IDF, the more courage is found among us, the more they prove to us just who they really are, cowards and the despicable.

I know that Islamic terrorism will continue to fool the world, and the weak among us will join their ranks. Islamic terror may continue to fool the media into calling them “Militants”, but we know who you are. Be it known that there are those who will not bend to this cowardice and will be strong and fight back. Our victims stand witness to your cowardice and evil, Heaven stands the Judge, and we will pass sentence on you in time.

A real Friend of the IDF

Since it’s rebirth, the IDF has stood as a source of pride to the Jewish Nation. Not just in the forefront of Israel’s fight against our enemies and terrorism, but a world class military that has been the vanguard of new tactics, strategies and technology.

Recently, I attended a dinner for the “Friends of the IDF”, or FIDF for short. It was wonderful to see how people got together to show support for our brave men and women serving Israel and the Jewish people.

The recent Operation in Gaza was of course brought up and the stories of heroism and courage flowed. To show the danger our residents of the south have lived under, a map was presented. The map showed the different ranges of the missiles and the times needed to take cover. The Gaza strip was shown in white, clearly not a part of the State of Israel anymore. Most disturbing, however, was that the areas of Judea and Samaria were also shown in white.

Recent statistics stated that at least 50% of the Elite combat officers are from Judea and Samaria along with at least 30% of all combat troops. How is it that this breeding ground of Jewish soldiers and future leaders was not included in the State of Israel?

I watched as $15 million dollars was raised at the dinner to provide comfort and better conditions for our soldiers, all the while as the source of these modern day Maccabees was blotted out, an incredible feat and blessing and at the same time an insult to say the least.

It appears to me that the majority of the supporters of the IDF outside of Israel are not aware of the facts. Obvious at the dinner was also the strong feeling of Zionism and support for Israel, all of Israel. So how is it that the FIDF chose to forget one of the most valuable assets the IDF and the State of Israel has known since our rebirth? I have met many that are involved with the FIDF, and they are far from ignorant, they are true examples of strong Jews who believe in being involved. That being said, many of the IDF officers working with the FIDF also are fine examples of our people who value the treasure of Judea and Samaria.

I am hoping that those who prepared the presentation simply made an innocent mistake. Unfortunately, I fear that I am the one who is mistaken.

As I mentioned, many of these officers and combat troops live in Judea and Samaria, they give all they can, most of them going into the best units available, all throughout the IDF. Indeed, soldiers from these communities of Judea and Samaria are known as the best of the best - the many career soldiers making up the 50% of the elite combat officer corp. I mentioned, often find themselves away from their families for long periods of time. They are willing give everything they have for our people, only asking that we watch over their families while they are gone. How can they be ignored by the FIDF? As Jews from Israel, we find ourselves in ambassadorial roles overseas, what message are we sending out to the Diaspora and other nations of the world when we do not fully acknowledge the cream of the crop, and ignore their homes?

One of the missions of the IDF is to show the strength of the Jewish people, to say to the world, “Never Again”, and to let our enemies know that Jewish blood will not be taken for granted. The FIDF is one of the premier organizations that carry this message - it must also carry the responsibility of telling the story of our heroes. The IDF is not aligned with any political party, nor should the FIDF.

It is also the responsibility of our fellow Jews to know the truth and give credit where it is due. Ignorance is proving to be one of our greatest enemies, standing alongside with the lack of a strong identity.

As written above, it is alarming how many of us are not aware of what is really going on in Israel. Jews are brought on missions, yet they are not shown the whole country. They come out in support of the IDF yet do not travel and see the source of our heritage. How can we expect anyone to have an informed opinion or make a proper decision based on only half the picture?

I urge Jewish leaders throughout the world to behave responsibly in their communities and present the entire picture to them, not a tempered concept. As individuals, we all have the right to our opinions, but we also have the responsibility to arrive at them through knowledge and not ignorance. This is the only way we will truly continue to develop and not be lead as sheep to an unfavorable demise. If you support the IDF you must support all of it and all of Israel, and not close your eyes any longer.

900 Million ways to say I love you

If there was any question regarding US policy change regarding Israel, the transfer of $900 million tax payer dollars to the supposed rebuilding of Gaza and the “Palestinian Authority”, confirms that which so many feared, anti Israel gestures and actions are taking place. It wasn’t enough that US tax dollars go to training the Palestinian Military, and equipping them, of course this all falling into Hamas hands, these dollars will now go to rearming and rebuilding the terrorist infrastructure.

In the “real” world the game is different, manipulation, misplaced loyalty, along with lies and backstabbing are part of everyday life. Honor and Duty have no place in this world, it is a world where people are mislead into believing that they are doing good, while they are actually serving a dark purpose. It is a world where no one is safe, as truths are bent out of shape in order to form “change”, and personal achievement, where lives that are lost are not counted less can affect a bank account somewhere under a false name.

The US administration is very aware what will happen to the funds that are being transferred to the Hamas, yes, the Hamas. I suppose that they trust the “Palestinian Authority” will hold onto these funds and use them to rebuild Gaza, where they have such a strong presence. Building more and improved tunnels cost money, upgraded Grad missiles do not grow on trees, and Achminajad is a tough salesman, who only takes cash, no credit. The US administration is not so naive as to think that the civilians will receive any funds and that the safeguards in place will prevent misuse of these funds.

Who cares, just a few more dead in the Middle East, who cares about Jews dying anyway, they’ve been doing it for so long, they are use to it. Israel is a real pain anyway now a days, so maybe you can kill two birds with one stone, or Grad. We will call it a new name, “change”, we can brand it differently so that even their own will adopt it. When and if it fails, we will just say we tried. By then we will have a new face in America, and no one will care anymore. It’s just a few Jews anyway.

I’m trying to figure it out, is it hatred of Jews or the love of oil and money that is the motivation behind this. Has Islamic intervention grown so much as to have such an influence on US policy? Don’t even mention Human rights or Liberal causes, anyone that truly believes that has a lot to learn about human beings and politics. Sure, there are problems in Israel where both sides must assume responsibility for the “situation”, but to carve up a nation and place it’s population under the constant threat of terrorism? Interesting, how US military officials now admit to being wrong about Iran’s nuclear capability, the timing is perfect. Yes, we wanted change, and we sure got it.

Policy is being written on University campuses under the auspices of Professors detached from their fellow humans, with little care for the common man and a greater good. For many, their rhetoric being directed by individuals who live in the shadow of society, dreaming of the renewed Caliphate. Those who disagree with them are labeled fascist and worst, often being put down by the threat of violence.

“Rants” are common in opinion columns, one can only hope that they will lead to action. The world is rearming the Gazans and Arabs living in Judea and Samaria, what are we going to do about it? How many more articles are to be written? 2.8 billion dollars will do quite a lot for the Arabs in their fight against Israel, the money will not be used to promote peace only more violence and destruction. What was once considered to be a terrorist organization today is becoming a fast “friend” of the US, it is a matter of time before the Hamas will carry the same status, and we will see how a “Two” state solution, becomes a “Three” state solution.

It is a time to be strong and hold out a little longer. A generation that has learned the lessons of a weak government and seen what compromise brings is growing up. They will soon be voting and assuming the roles of leadership. “Change” is the new buzzword, watch the change in Israel as it will develop into a new and stronger nation. The script being written by outsourced writers apparently will lead us down a very bumpy road, and at times the call of “Abandon Ship” might seem to make the most sense. Remember, every storm has its end, and we most hold on as the most experienced of sailors can, and ride it through. It is not a time for naïveté only wisdom.

Where is there strength?

What happened to Jewish pride and strength in the US? I read and watch how there is constant anti Israel and Anti Jewish activities on almost every US college campus. Israel Anti Apartheid week, demonstrations against “Operation Cast Lead”, the incident at York University in Toronto, where Jews had to take refuge while the crowd outside shouted “Die Jew”, should wake someone up. What has happened to the Jews living outside of Israel? Why are they behaving like Jews in pre World War 2 Germany? In classic Arab behavior, the weak are always attacked and exploited, we in Israel learned this and decided to fight back. Of course the results are what’s known as the “Jewish –Arab” problem, or what happens when Jews defend themselves. The weakened state of the Jews of the Diaspora is becoming alarming. Through out the world anti Jewish attacks are on the rise, and the Jews are becoming quite the victim again. Equipped with nothing but ignorance regarding Israel, most US students are forced to fall back to hide under an Arab lead onslaught. The concept of standing up to defend themselves is as foreign to them as true peace with Israel is to our Arab neighbors. The major Jewish organizations take little action to watch out for their own, finding that it is better lie quiet and not make waves. Apparently history is for speculation and not for learning, as lessons from the past are being wasted on the apathy of the present. The supposed cause of these demonstrations is the recent action in Gaza, of course the Israeli reason for acting being totally ignored, and once again we see the truth perverted by enemies of Israel and being turned against the Jews of the Diaspora. There seem to be only two choices, fight back for your own rights to live quietly and think freely or move to Israel. I don’t expect the majority of Diaspora Jews to move to Israel, but I would hope they would at least stand up for themselves and if I lived in the US, I would expect the major Jewish Federations to do something about the present situation.

The voices against Jews will only grow louder, and it is a matter of time before violent acts join the verbal assault. Over the last few years, US leadership has been bending backward to appease Muslim governments and the Muslim population of the US. Compromises in US security policy have become common practice causing serious leaks and new threats daily. It seems at this point that this policy will continue, and further become more biased towards the Jewish population in the US. Condoleezza Rice’s misbalanced policies seem to continue under the present administration as more and more “Islamic friendly” staff are being added on, with Israel being thought of as more of a bother than a loyal friend and ally. Add the economic situation and you have quite a bad recipe for the near future.

As reality in the US stands to change, it would be wise for US Jewry to regroup and rethink their policies and politics. Lying quiet and blending with our enemies has proven to be a mistake as we see European Jewry is already on its way out, with the new Muslim presence making their lives difficult. This being a sign of what to come in the US, it would be wise to prepare for the “change”.

The throngs will try to use Israel against you, try to remember where they come from. Ask about the human rights in their countries, how their women are respected and then delve into the pleasures of Sharia Law. Find out just how much democracy exists in Arab lands and what happens when you disagree. When they mention “Israel Apartheid Week”, tell them to look in a mirror and then take a deep look into Israeli society. When you get some answers, ask what happened to the Jewish communities throughout the Middle East, and maybe you will get insight to how they view you, really and not face value. Maybe the demonstrations against Israel should be redirected to the real villains of western society and freedom.

If the Jews living in the US value their life styles and wish to continue on a positive note, it is time they take action to preserve themselves and their identity. Selling out to the enemies of the Jewish nation will only continue to weaken them.

A strong United States is going to need a strong Israel, and a strong Jewish community in the US needs a strong Israel, the alternative will only bring about disaster.

Don’t fall victim to the lies of our enemies. Be strong, be educated, and be proud, you owe it to your children.

The Ostrich Policy

Elections are over in both the US and Israel. Does our responsibility as voters end now? We have listened to the promises, we have heard the policies and have been told that “change” is at our doorstep, what now? Elected officials are usually held accountable for their actions, sooner or later if we are lucky, but what about those who put them in office?
The recent US elections seemed to be more personal than past elections. During a recent trip to the US, I found that many Jews seemed very defensive about their decision to vote for President Obama. Before any opinions were voiced either way, the entire topic regarding the US elections seemed to be held in some taboo area, with the executive staff being put on a guarded pedestal, not to be questioned or critiqued. I observed as both sides, supporters and opponents, of the new President squared off regarding the results and the possible effects of the changed behavior on Israel, often seeing the supporters of President Obama disconnecting from Israel and disregarding and ignoring the new developing reality in the new administration. I watched as people actually walked away from hearing criticism of the new President’s choices for various offices. It seemed as though any discussion regarding Israel and the new administration was like putting salt on a wound. Most seem to think that if the “Israel question” is ignored it will go away, sort of like an Ostrich putting his head in the sand when threatened. These are not the actions of a responsible citizen or voter.
Whether people feel they made a mistake regarding their choices is irrelevant at this point, they are not excused from their responsibilities of being loyal citizens, no matter who they chose. If their champion is not living up to their expectations, they are not permitted to hide their heads in the sand while mistakes that will cost numerous lives are made, they too are responsible, and they must at least make an effort to right the wrongs. This means being involved, raising your voice, demonstrating and doing something, no one is excused.
It seems that the onslaught on Israel has reached levels never seen in US history. With each new member of the present US administration, new arguments are brought against the only stable democracy and constant US ally in the Middle East, Israel. There is a saying the “enemy of my enemy is my friend”, what is “the enemy of my friend is my friend”?
I understand the US interest in making nice with Arab nations, I find the tactics used to be shallow, but that is just an opinion that countless millions and I share. Most countries become allies because of common values and interests. Friendships are formed when we share common ground. In fact if we look, most US allies have all shared the concept of freedom of religion, democracy, women’s rights and so on. Where is that common ground with the US’s new friends? It seems that the only common denominator between present US policy and Islamic rulers in the Middle East is that of carving up Israel. I guess we should be glad they have what to talk about at Camp David over a plate of Humus.
As the increase of anti-Israel voices gather on the hill, I wonder where are the Jews that voted for this administration? What are they afraid of? Are they not aware of the dangers to the US of the direction being taken?
Yes, peace is made with enemies, but not at the expense of life. 71% or more of US Jews chose Barak Obama as their champion, they should help him make the right choices. Show him the importance of Israel as a secure and strong nation and it’s value to the United States. If you don’t know how important Israel is, look into it, you will find that you will be proud of who you are and not ashamed. Bring back the value of friendship and loyalty. Show him your value, and don’t allow the US Government fall victim to Sharia value. It’s not too late to make a change and have an effect, stand up before you can’t, and do something. There has been enough rhetoric, it is time to act and act strong. Responsibility didn’t end with the last elections, both in the US and Israel. If you need a hand, come over for a visit and we will remind you who you are and what you can do.

Sometimes the want for change can be so strong that it may blind us to other dangers, the more time that heads are kept in the sand, the more likely that someone is going to suffer.

A Different View

A Different View
For too many years most Diaspora Jews have viewed Israel as the “poor Jews”, the victims, and of course, “we have to help the poor Israelis”. Who can blame them? Every week they see another one of us coming to their synagogues and telling another story asking them to give Charity or Tzedaka. They hear of our victims of terror, our hungry, and our sick. Most causes are not turned down, such it is in Israel also. Thank Gd! When it comes to Chesed (Kindness), we are tops. Our fellows Jews are always ready to assist, as “Chesed” is truly a noble characteristic of our people worldwide. Throughout Jewish schools in America they are always on the search for a new “Chesed” project. We do have what to be proud of. They however rarely hear of our strengths and our heroes.
I must say however, as an Israeli, I never regarded myself, or fellow Israeli Jews as “poor Israelis” and this label insults us. The hunt for Tzedaka (Charity), exists in Israel also as our doorbells constantly ring with those who are less fortunate. But we in Israel have an advantage that perhaps doesn’t make it to the US Jewish papers, the Diaspora Jewish communities or that which the younger generations are not aware of. In Israel we see our “Gvurah” (strength) daily, we live it and we breathe it. It is this reality that creates a balance in our existence. The concept of “Chesed and Gvurah” is part of who we are, especially in Judea and Samaria. Indeed we are fully aware that we fight and protect our nation not just for those of us that live in Israel, but also for Jews worldwide. That understanding is part of what motivates us, and keeps us strong. Remember, we have our own army, government (for better and worse) and a Jewish country, not to shabby. But we still come across as the “poor Israeli” to our brethren outside.
This image unfortunately has had an affect on Jews worldwide. Where as Israel was viewed as our champion, it is now viewed in some circles as a “bother”. By not showing our strength properly we have abandoned our brothers overseas, and in lacking a strong Israel they have fallen victim to our enemies, often joining them in their activities against Israel. It has been Israel’s strength that has united us for years, our just cause and fight against terror. By the absence of showing our strength this side of us has been distorted and turned against us, examples may be seen in US universities coast-to-coast and worldwide by Arab lead demonstrations demonizing Israel and its right to exist. In the absence of truth, lies propagate and history and facts are ignored.
Most Jewish children have not been brought up in the shadow of Israeli heroism in the face of our enemies. They are too young to have cheered our brave sons and daughters who have made the ultimate sacrifice, our revered history are only writings in their text books or stories they have heard from their grandparents. We stand guilty of not showing them the continuation of Jewish heroism, the accomplishments of our people today in Israel, and how that Jews, even in the Diaspora can make a difference and be fighters.

The Jewish reality stands to change once again. With Islamic influence growing throughout the west and Israel’s weakened stand against terrorism, this “change” has already started. What is the norm for others defending their citizens is considered extremism on Israel’s side. Jewish strength is being perverted by world’s media agencies into the new evil and Islamic terror is becoming accepted as a legitimate means against Israel’s existence. It is becoming increasingly “OK” for Jews to be hurt, because “they deserve it” because of Israel’s actions.
If there was ever a time to connect with Israel, it is now. Jews living in the Diaspora need this strength, this confidence, and this faith. Europe is almost lost to the rejuvenated Moorish rule, next victim will most likely be the US. We will only be able to depend on each other. Just as the unity of Jews was instrumental in bringing about the miracle, thank Gd, of Israel in 1948, so it may be again today. After attempted annihilation in Europe and Arab states, we rose as a people together, working side by side, each doing what he could to change reality. We looked at history and learned, and we said enough, and we said, “Never Again”.
We continue to say this, but as our voices have lately been whispers, they will be shouts again.
It is this connection to Israel that is essential now more than ever, We must strengthen each other as we rise to those that wish us gone. We did this before and changed the way the world viewed us as a people, we can and will do this again.
It is very important however that Jews from the outside get a better understanding of what is going on in Israel. The needs for Chesed both in Israel and the Diaspora are great and we have proven again and again, how we excel in taking care of our needy.
There is a difference however between “taking care of” and “participating in”. When a hand reaches out and we help, we are “taking care of”, when the need arises to fight and defend, we must rise to the challenge. However, not all of us can “participate” directly and this is where a stronger “connection” comes in. A Jews life must be balanced, between the desire and ability to help those less fortunate (Chesed), and the desire and dedication to act on behalf of our defense (Gvurah). How many of us connect with the image of the Jewish soldier defending his land, the Jewish farmer and builder rebuilding that, which is ours. These are not images of the past, they exist throughout our land today.
This balance of Chesed (Kindness) and Gvurah (Strength) is a key, and our existence as a strong people depend on it.
The future is ours to shape, it is action that will define who we are.