Inspiration at a time of the deepest darkness

Yesterday was one of, if not the most, inspiring of my life and it came at what should have been one of its low points.

The background was truly horrific – a funeral of a young son and brother brutally killed whilst defending his country, presumed kidnapped for over 160 days, whose blood found at the scene was buried in a coffin whilst his body remains somewhere in Gaza, whose family has been living a nightmare beyond imagination.

Standing in the rain for two hours listening to what was said, how it was said and what was totally absent left me emotionally drained, at times in absolute tears and immensely proud of my friends, neighbors and country!

I heard a family grieving deeply and I heard most an immense outpouring of love and pride in a hero who loved his family and country and who died making the ultimate sacrifice for both of them.

From the start of the funeral – a drive through our town where residents lined the streets holding Israeli flags – to the end of the funeral where the national anthem Hatikva “The Hope” was sung there was not a word of hatred, anger or revenge – there was just dignity!

Daniel lived his life and died sanctifying God’s name and his people, and his funeral was a sanctification of all that represents the very best of this country, people and mankind in general – love, hope, pride and dignity.

To anyone who thinks we are a genocidal or evil people bent on destruction or revenge you just had to feel the energy of this truly awe-inspiring and completely authentic funeral.

I truly wish the family comfort in memory of their hero of a son and I also hope it reinforces a clear message that we are a truly special nation with young men and women who are strong, proud, act with immense dignity and the best of ethics and that we will prevail.

May the other captives be returned home immediately and may this nightmare be over soon with good prevailing and an end to this bloodshed and terror wreaked on both sides by Hamas.

Captain Daniel Perez, Of Blessed Memory, A truly special man, soldier, hero from a truly special family!!