Though I wouldn’t consider myself particularly tech-savvy, often finding myself grappling with IKEA furniture or intricate LEGO sets, the past few weeks have cast me in an unexpected role. I have assumed the unofficial position of the neighborhood’s go-to technical assistant.
This transformation isn’t due to any newfound proficiency on my part; rather, it’s a response to the circumstances we currently find ourselves in. With the recent outbreak of war, a majority of the fathers and husbands on my peaceful Efrat street have been called for reserve duty. Consequently, my doorstep has become a frequent stop for children seeking minor assistance, whether it’s inflating bike tires, fixing a broken toy, or even helping them with their online schoolwork. These simple tasks, with which I’m more than happy to help, serve as constant reminders of the significant sacrifices being made by their fathers.
Each Friday brings unique challenges for the families left behind, especially for the women whose husbands serve in reserve duty. After a grueling week of juggling work, household responsibilities, and childcare on their own, the arrival of Shabbat – a universally cherished time in Israeli households – often carries mixed emotions. For religious families, the challenges are compounded by the constraints of the Sabbath, which prohibits cooking or using electronics. These limitations not only affect practicalities but also intensify feelings of isolation and longing.
It was against this backdrop that a gesture last week stood out profoundly. The wives of reserve soldiers received a heartfelt surprise: a complete Shabbat meal package from a local restaurant. Initially, I assumed this was an initiative by the restaurant itself, but I was deeply moved to discover that the sponsorship came from a group of Canadian Jews from Mizrachi Canada who extended their support from thousands of miles away.
The package included not only delicious food but also notes of encouragement and support, adding a personal touch to the act of kindness. Anything an average family would need for Shabbat was in this magical bag.
Testing the resilience of our nation
THIS YEAR has tested the resilience of our nation, but it has also illuminated our inherent solidarity and the warmth of the Israeli spirit. Acts of kindness, both grand and small, ripple through our communities, with individuals stepping up without expecting recognition or reward. My wife embodies this spirit, collaborating with other local women to provide meals for families temporarily without their usual breadwinners.
Our home is a hub of activity as we host gatherings, bringing together those who share the experience of having loved ones serving in the IDF. These gatherings provide not just sustenance but also a sense of community and emotional support for those who bear the weight of separation.
The war coincided with Simchat Torah, and as a result, many soldiers left their sukkot standing. Anticipating the challenges of the impending Gush Etzion winter, many neighbors and local youth pitched in to help disassemble them. Such community-driven efforts are mirrored across the nation.
For instance, the Fourth Quarter movement coordinated the delivery of 6,500 flower bouquets to soldiers’ wives, ensuring that soldiers could send a token of love despite their absence. The sight of colorful bouquets brightening the homes of these families served as a vivid reminder of the nation’s unity and unwavering support.
Furthermore, the Ezer Mitzion organization’s Brothers at the Door initiative resonates deeply, underscoring the community’s commitment to the well-being of its elderly members. As the elderly found themselves increasingly isolated, the community rallied, not only through a dedicated hotline but also by encouraging individuals to adopt and assist their elderly neighbors. It’s heartwarming to witness younger generations extending a hand to their elders, forging connections, and ensuring that no one feels alone during these trying times.
The ripple effects of the war have also extended to our agricultural sector. With the call-up of many reservists and the departure of foreign workers, the agricultural industry is feeling the pinch. In a remarkable display of unity and dedication, young teens, National Service members, and students from institutions like the Ezra youth movement in Efrat stepped up to aid farmers in dire need of assistance. They braved the elements, worked the fields, and ensured that the harvest was not lost, despite the challenges posed by the ongoing conflict.
As we navigate this tumultuous chapter, the unwavering positivity, unity, and mutual respect of the Israeli spirit shines through. The steadfast support from both Israelis and Diaspora Jews serves as a beacon of hope. It is crucial that we not only acknowledge but also celebrate these moments of unity and let them lay the foundation for a brighter, more peaceful future.
In these acts of kindness, in the bonds forged, and in the unwavering support extended, we find strength, resilience, and the promise of a better tomorrow for all.
The writer is deputy editor-in-chief of The Jerusalem Post.