A New Year

Being in Israel during the Jewish holidays (any Jewish holiday, but especially Rosh Hashanah), shows off the best side of Israeli society. During the weeks leading up to Rosh Hashanah, there is an emphasis on giving, be it food, money or something else, to those who are less fortunate. Volunteers stand at the entrance of supermarkets with a list of food items that they would like you to buy and then donate. And for those who are too lazy to choose from a list, there are even people inside with carts full of food who go up and down the aisles, asking if you would like to take something out of their basket and add it to yours. Workers in cell phone companies volunteer their time and services to man the phones and help with donations, and people greet each other with a “shana tova” and a smile and everyone is excited for a few days off. During the holidays people manage to put aside their grudges and bad feelings for a few days of food, family and fun.

Last year I remember being very homesick during Rosh Hashanah. There is such a strong emphasis on family, that it is hard when yours is thousands of miles away. This year was easier since I have become a part of Ariel’s family, but of course it does not replace my own. My holiday was filled with lots of people congratulating me on the engagement, more food than I could ever dream of, and even a few hours at the beach. I still can’t believe that it is still warm enough to go to the beach at the end of September!

Shana Tova to everyone. May this year be filled with health, happiness, love and success…and perhaps a trip to the holy land to visit a new immigrant in Tel Aviv?