Some Thoughts...

It's difficult to find words that can truly capture the sadness and grief that many of us feel as we witness the conflict between Hamas and Israel play out. Many of us are watching this unfold on our screens, and some of us even know people personally affected by this war. Our hearts ache for the innocent. And we plead and pray for peace.

Let us remember that our words on social media have a lasting impact. We can grieve and pray for Israelis and Palestinians. We should not choose sides between the innocent people who are caught up in this, and we must remember each other's humanity.

In the midst of this turmoil, I draw on our liturgy, and I offer these words from the Amidah, often called 'The Prayer.' I wrote this melody in 2015 from my balcony in Baka in Jerusalem:

'Oseh Shalom Bimromav Hu Ya'aseh Shalom Oseh Shalom Bimromav Hu Ya'aseh Shalom'

'May the one who makes peace from heaven above Hu Ya'aseh Shalom'

Let us continue to pray for peace because, sadly, I believe this will get worse before it gets better.

As a personal reflection, I spent my birthday weekend in the mountains, a place where I always find comfort. Amidst the serene landscapes, it reinforced my hope for a brighter future.