Never Mirror the Darkness We Oppose

In our usually peaceful suburban community, an individual, identifying as a Palestinian protester, has become a recurring fixture, regularly impeding traffic during peak commuting hours. This individual traverses the median, actively engaging and, at times, provoking passersby and drivers with signs and chants of “Free Palestine” and “Long live the Intifada.”

Following repeated instigations, and particularly in the wake of the horrific events of October 7th – the invasion, the brutal murders, and the abduction of innocent people – a wellspring of frustration finally overflowed within me. Witnessing their expressions of what I perceived as virulent hatred and the disturbing sentiments of “death to America and Israel,” I felt an undeniable urge to exercise my own right to free speech. Consequently, I was about to lower my car window, intending to articulate my sentiments regarding the terrorists and their vocal/violent supporters who have maintained a disruptive presence on our campuses and city streets for nearly a year and a half.

As I prepared to voice my perspective, I anticipated a sense of empowerment in taking a stand, contributing my voice to the discourse, and unequivocally aligning myself in what I believe to be a fundamental struggle between good and evil. However, the interaction took an unexpected turn. Instead of engaging in a verbal exchange, the protester showered me with dismissive gestures, as if my Jewishness and support for Israel and America was a ludicrous notion warranting only scorn.

The regular disruption caused by this apparent supporter of terrorism was infuriating, but the dismissive nature of their response was even more so. Yet, in that moment, a profound realization struck me. Glancing in my rearview mirror, I confronted myself with a stark question: “Who am I in this moment?” I was taken aback by the intensity of my indignation and the negativity I felt towards these Hamas supporters. And then, I surprised myself further. I paused and consciously affirmed, “This is not who I am, nor who I aspire to be.”

In that instant, I recognized that our conflict transcends a mere battle for survival and a defense of democracy and civilization against terrorism and barbarism. It is also a profound struggle for our very essence. In confronting terrorists and their sympathizers, we must remain vigilant that in asserting our beliefs and defending ourselves, we do not succumb to their level. I desire to contribute constructively, but I refuse to emulate the hateful and reprehensible behavior they exhibit.

Undoubtedly, unwavering determination is paramount in defending ourselves, our fundamental right to practice our faith as Jews, and in safeguarding the sovereignty and dignity of the State of Israel. However, this defense must be conducted with resolute integrity, allowing us to stand tall with an unblemished conscience. While we must win the war, at the same time, we need to recognize that we are fundamentally different from our adversaries, and it is our solemn responsibility to ensure that we never mirror the darkness we oppose.