Erev Shabbat thoughts in-between the rocket fire

I opened my eyes this morning and the war was still out there. I tried to focus on some menial tasks but can’t manage to rid myself of the nightmare. Allow me to share what this morning has felt like, particularly for our friends around the world who’ve thoughtfully asked ‘How are you?’ so many times these past 20 days and I’ve only been able to provide a short ‘Ok. Exhausted. Hopeful. Worried.’ message. You can all use this as a relevant response on most any day that we are still at war.

I stumbled downstairs to put up the traditional chicken soup for Shabbat. Got waylaid by the accumulated mess so started to fold the blankets, straighten up, throw out the newspapers to make room for the new ones. Grateful for our daughters who are still making the desserts in a general attempt to provide a good vibe. And the husband who continues to do the bulk of the shopping while juggling mid-night security needs in our community (no details to follow).

We only play Israeli radio now in the background, occasionally finding the spirit to dance around the kitchen together. But Dire Straits just got rudely interrupted: “Tel Aviv, south. Tel Aviv, central. Petach Tikva. Incoming. Go into your safe rooms and stay there. ” Phone calls to check on loved ones: first to our daughter, thank God she took cover in time. And back to the cooking, but less dancing for awhile.

Constant thoughts for the soldiers in our family (no details forthcoming on this either). My worry is not unique – every one of you reading this in Israel is personally touched, with our families called up to military service, serving on some border or another. Running to the phone when it rings. Staring at it when it doesn’t.

We will get through this. With God’s help, with our conviction and really no choice. This is good vs evil, and we must prevail. For all of our sakes, yours too, and especially for our children.

As we say each week, Shabbat SHALOM.

No words. Just a hug. (Image courtesy of author)

—

Note: This short note was interrupted several times by rockets incoming somewhere in Israel.