Standing Ready to Give

There have been many stories told of unsung heroes since the war began on October 7th, 2023/Simchat Torah 5784. I want to share another—this time, the hero is my husband, Adam, who would be mortified to know I’m writing about him.

I’ve thought a lot about how, in the first days of the war, we were all called into our unique roles. אתם ניצבים היום לפני הי אלוקיכם…, “You stand before Hashem, your G-d, today.” These are the words spoken by Moshe Rabeinu to the Children of Israel in Parshat Nitavim just before they entered into the eternal covenant with G-d. Each one stood ready to accept his or her role.

In the days following October 7th, each person discovered their unique potential, their role, and their strengths—and gave of themselves. The most obvious examples are the brave young men and women who flocked to their bases with determination, faith, and conviction. Some fought to return to Israel, and others even fought with the army to be taken into reserves. Their commitment to their country and to each other left us breathless.

We all know of the heroism of the medical and security personnel, and sadly, the incredible work of Zaka and the chevra kadisha. Jews worldwide increased their tzedakah, Torah learning, mitzvot, and tefillot in ways no one could have imagined.

On the homefront, people cooked, baked, gathered supplies, and showed love and support for families with family members that had been called up. And we’ve tried, in the face of unimaginable loss, to comfort the mourning families—far too many.

Adam, a new immigrant too old to serve in the IDF, struggled with how to find his place. With the encouragement of our dear son, Eli, Adam quickly rearranged his work schedule, enrolled in the Hatzalah EMT training course, and now spends his non-working hours responding to medical emergencies throughout Jerusalem. Without overstating the sacrifice, this service now takes priority over our schedules, scarce family time, and even Adam’s deep commitment to Torah learning, music, and family.

Adam is my hero—but he’s also a model for all of us. He reminds me of what אתם ניצבים היום means: be ready and waiting to give of yourself, with your unique skills and abilities, where G-d needs you most.