With the growing tension surrounding GAZA students are required to use discretion and caution. More information will follow as the situation unfolds.
A message like that is jolting. It is frightening to think that parts of the country I am in are under attack. Thankfully, I am far from the danger, but I sill worry about all the Israelis in the communities surrounding Gaza. From big cities like Ashkelon and Beersheva to small towns like Sderot, hundreds of thousands of Israeli civilians are made to suffer for one reason: they are Jews living in the Jewish state. It really makes you realize how little has changed over the centuries.
In the face of such random acts of terror, it is easy to be disheartened. Israel and the Jewish people as a whole are often alone in the world. When dealing with such a situation, though, the most important thing to remember is that there are others who care. Tonight, I had the privilege of attending the Masa Israel Journey opening event featuring the popular musicians of the Idan Raichel Project at the Jerusalem International Convention Center. More than just a concert, the event was a sort of Zionist pep rally where 3,000 students from all over the world came to show their support for the State of Israel during their semesters or years studying in Israel. It was very similar to the Taglit-Birthright Mega Event I went to last December, even featuring the same speakers and music. Both times, I was in awe at the sight of thousands of other young adults who love and support Israel congregating in one room to celebrate all that makes our nation strong.
Soldiers of the IDF in formation outside of the concert.
A view of the welcome hall from above.
The stage in the auditorium of the International Convention Center.
The introduction featured what was possibly the greatest version of Hava Nagila ever.
A representative from the Prime Minister's Office came to welcome and thank us. He described Israel as the "most exciting country in the world." I could not agree more.
Natan Sharansky, the current chairman of the Jewish Agency for Israel, came to speak. He is famous as a former Soviet refusenik and prisoner.
Two guys banging a floating drum hovered above the audience.
A shower of balloons came down from overhead.
The Idan Raichel Project is a group of musicians who create their songs through a fusion of electronics, traditional Hebrew texts, and Middle Eastern and Ethiopian music. Their sound is totally unique and unlike anything else I have ever heard.
A proud nation. Images of Israel were frequently on display.
A night of fun and enjoyment in the face of terror. We win.
what an amazing way to show israel support and be surrounded by others who love israel as much as you do!!!
ReplyDeletestay safe and keep updating =D