170728 Temple Mount, Hatzad Hasheni, Standwithus

170728

28^TH OF July 2017

Shabbat Shalom dear friends. I know you were expecting a mid-week update but I decided to wait until I was able to understand the insanity of what has happened over the last two weeks.

Perhaps it is easier to gain perspective if we look at the time frame of this particular set of incidents

1.     3 young Israeli Moslems from Umm el Fahem took knives into the Old City on their way to the Temple Mount, shooting three Israelis, two of whom were policemen. The policemen, may their brave souls rest in peace, were both Druze.

2.     The three terrorists were neutralized – that means dead.

3.     Northern Moslems attacked the Druze village of one of the dead policemen

4.     Israeli police and secret service searched the Temple Mount, having closed it to all comers, and found an arms cache. It must be noted that although the Temple Mount is officially under the control of Jordan it is actually the Moslem Brotherhood.

5.     In a decision taken with caution it was decided to place metal detectors at the entrances to the Temple Mount, to protect all comers.

6.     The Mufti of Jerusalem aided and abetted by Sheikh Ra'eed Salah of Umm el Fahem, Mahmoud Abbas, Erdogan of Turkey, successfully convinced willing Moslems that Israel was defiling the Temple Mount and they refused to enter, praying beside the Lions Gate among others.

7.     A young Arab, Omar el-Abed went looking for Jews on Friday night, convinced that Jews were endangering Al Aqsa. He found a break in the security fence of the village of Halamish where the Saloman family was celebrating not only Shabbat but the birth of a new grandchild. He knocked at the door and when he went in he began a rampage of butchery that does not bear imagining. He killed the grandfather Yosef, and Yosef's children Chaya and Elad and almost succeeded in killing Tova the grandmother. With great courage Elads wife grabbed the children and rushed them upstairs. The unimaginable horror continued until a neighbour's son home from the IDF for Shabbat, shot and injured the perpetrator who is being treated for his injuries in an Israeli hospital. El-Abeds family will receive over $3,000 a month from the PA.

8.     The incitement continues, the celebrations at the killing of the family, and the demand to "return to the Status quo" on the Temple Mount joins the screams to kill all the Jews. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nUNeFkR1GeM

9.     The outside world intervenes – the United States President and the Saudi Arabian King bring in the services of Trump advisor Jason Greenblatt who consulted with King Abdullah of Jordan who although demanding that the metal detectors be removed, the security cameras too, the incitement must stop and the conditions accepted. It may appear that Israel capitulated but the undercurrents show a different picture. The Moslem Brotherhood excluded and Erdogan is piqued because he was not given any part of the decision making because yet again he chose the wrong side – Qatar and the Moslem Brotherhood. In the past the British Foreign Office called the Ottoman (Turkish) Sultan "The sick man of the Bosphorus". History does repeat itself. Although it appears the Israel lost this battle in fact we retained the right to security on the Temple Mount – hardly capitulation.

10.  Moslems within Israel and in the PA dance with joy at their victory and the 3 terrorists bodies are returned to their families for burial (thanks to the Israeli Supreme court) and Umm el Fahem erupts into one joyous celebration of sheer joy declaring themselves the victors.

11.  Al Jazeera, since the Qatar fiasco, continued their incitement with added gusto and risk being thrown out of Jerusalem. Hope so – their staff will have to go to Arab countries now – no more freedom!!!

12.  The incitement in the Arab street was well honed. The full might of their lying manipulation by their leaders, religious and governmental, invoked and now they smell blood, Jewish blood and the riots will continue. Yesterday their elation at "winning" against the Jews spilled over into violence on and around the Temple Mount. Today all women and men over 50 went through the Lions Gate onto the Temple Mount and all others are praying at the Damascus Gate. I simply pray for the safety of our amazing police and border guards who have shown incredible restraint in controlling the "celebrations".

13.  Hanin Zoabi, Member of Knesset with full freedom of speech was screaming that the Temple Mount should be Jew-free (Judenrein, heard that before!) and was banned entry to Al Aqsa. She who has full human rights in Israel bites the very democratic hand which feeds her. http://www.timesofisrael.com/hanin-zoabi-temple-mount-should-be-jew-free/?fb_comment_id=918125304938185_918488948235154

Perhaps this video of Prof. Alan Dershowitz responding to a young "Palestinian" questioner best explains it all. I call it "Get over it" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5nE8_0uhojQ

So you thought it all started with the State of Israel, settlers and occupation did you? Well apart from the Egyptians, Romans, Greeks etc, and of course our own "Sinat Hinam" which brought about many disasters the Babylonians (Iraq) had their day too. Days before the Tisha B'Av fast, excavations unearth artifacts from First Temple period, Which include evidence of city's destruction at the hands of the Babylonians. http://www.jpost.com/Israel-News/Evidence-of-Babylonian-destruction-of-Jerusalem-unearthed-in-City-of-David-500786

Tisha b'Av is a fast of enormous importance, misunderstood by the secular and adhered to but equally misunderstood by the religious. It is the date of many Jewish disasters, the destruction of both Temples, plague and political downfall. As to whether contemplation or action is the response – prayer alone and inactivity no longer works. Read Rabbi Jeremy Rosen on the subject http://jeremyrosen.com/2017/07/fasting-on-the-9th-of-av.html

This has been a relatively quiet week, yes we do have them on occasion! Poor Zvi damaged his knee and we have been trying to find a solution. So far healing (thank you to Igor and Lila), concoctions, rest and positive thinking haven't worked so we went to a specialist who impressed me with his manner and knowledge. MRI and then we decide what to do. One thing for sure, he is not entering for the Jerusalem Marathon!!!!

On Monday we met with Robert Croiterescu and his excellent team, Anabella and Oscar Jaroslawsky in Kfar Maccabiah. Born in a Concentration Camp, Robi Croiterescu learned from birth that you don't give in without one helluva fight. Robi had a brilliant idea to form an organisation which fights back by ensuring everyone who loves Israel has the tools to fight back. Dissemination of essential information is the key. Ha Tsad ha Sheni  (the Other Side) reaches out to all Spanish speaking countries, Jew and non-Jew, so that they have the authentic information at their fingertips when challenged. http://hatzadhasheni.com/

I work on instinct and my instinct told me to get these amazing people together with Michael Dickson, the Israeli Director of Standwithus  https://standwithus.co.il/ . After convincing both sides that this was a good thing, that they should meet, that their aims ran parallel and could benefit both, we met in the Standwithus offices on King David Street. As we walked in I was very excited to meet Yahya Mahamed, a marvellous young Israeli Arab from Umm el Fahem. Yahya is an absolute star!!! He travels the English speaking world for Standwithus and for Israel. Michael was, as always a gracious host, hiding the fact that I had nagged him relentlessly to meet them – then it happened – the magic between Robi and Michael created a magical discourse and total agreement to work together. That's what it is all about. We can fight each other for who is top dog – or consolidate our resources and fight anti-Semitism by its new name, anti-Israel. BDS is the new Kristallnacht, the smashing of Jewish businesses, the tip of the evil iceberg of anti-Semitism. I love it when two good men of positive action get together!!!

This will be a quiet Shabbat and in a short while Zvi and I are going to a special preview tour of the new Aquarium at the Jerusalem Biblical Zoo. http://www.jpost.com/Israel-News/Culture/Aquarium-showcasing-local-fauna-comes-to-Jerusalems-Biblical-Zoo-497373 I just hope that Zvi will be able to walk around. It is really strange that I need to worry about him walking when it has been the other way around for 25 years!!!!!

I am very happy that we have a couple of quiet days because after Shabbat Leor is bringing his 3 little girls to stay and then hopefully on Sunday Rachel's 2 girls will join them and stay over too. I went out and bought a large amount of handicraft components so that they can make something beautiful to take home. The vast majority of Israeli women work in addition to keeping a family together – which is why most Israeli men are adept at taking their part in the cleaning, cooking, child care and general running of the homes. This generation of Israelis is very lucky, unlike our generation, they have parents and grandparents who play an enormous part in the children's lives.

The weather has been a strange cross between muggy, hot, steaming and ………… no relief in the evenings!!! It feels as if we haven't had a break from this soupy humidity for weeks, even in Jerusalem. I suddenly became a fan of air conditioning!!!

Music! Music! Music!

In honour of the 9 days and Tisha B'Av the music will be appropriate…………………

The prayer for the State of Israel sung by IDF Cantor Shai Abrahamson https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XP40Bl24PE0&t=195s May we find our strengths and stop the internecine fighting that brought us down on Tisha b'Av

Vehi She'amda – a song that plays in my mind at all times – the song and the words, Yaacov Shwekey, Shlomi Shabbat to honour our soldiers

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qnnKFpiP1hs

He who stood for our patriarchs​ *

He who stood for our patriarchs​ and for us

Not just one person stood against us to kill us.

They want to be rid of us.

And G-D saves us from their hands. G-D saves us from their hands.

Aesop, the famous philosopher and author of fables is oft cited "United we stand divided we fall". We must remember to keep our fights as family fights and present a united front against our ever increasing enemies. Remember – do you want to be right or do you want to stay alive?

Shabbat Shalom from beautiful Jerusalem, so exquisite, so spiritual that all faiths have fought over her, Empires have risen and fallen around her but above all, she represents the very best in us, in the Jewish people; this city, this symbol. We prayed to return to her walls and mountains for 2,000 years of dispersion. Let's make sure we don't screw it up.

I want to leave you with a request. Please sing along with this the song that represents Israel, Jerusalem, more than every other song. Al Kol Eleh – above all this; of the honey and the sting - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gbw2FTYHCTg  Sing loud and strong and absorb the words. Yihyeh beseder – it will be OK – it has to be.

With love

Sheila

  

170721 Temple Mount, Incitement

170721

21^st July, 2017

Shabbat Shalom! I hope this missive finds you well, or at least determined to be well.

Rolf Hochhuth wrote a play called "The Visit" or the "Visit of the Old Lady". The story goes thus. A very wealthy old lady comes to visit the town of her childhood and makes an offer to the poor townsfolk that will make them all wealthy. At first it seemed wonderful, but they balked at the condition of her gift – they had to kill the man, their friend, who had made her pregnant and jilted her many years before. She began a campaign against her former lover and eventually through her encouragement of profligate spending the town falls into debt and the townspeople agree to her terms and kill her former lover, who nobody really hated. The moral of the story is clear and so pertinent to the Middle East (and elsewhere) today that it is painful. Israel is the lover, the people of the Middle East are the townspeople and ISIS/Al Qaeeda/Hamas/MosBros/ are the Old lady forcing their people into poverty so that they kill out of desperation. The ony difference is that we never made anyone pregnant we just made the desert fertile.

The lies told about Israel are worthy of any dramatic presentation that the most imaginative of playwrights could dream up. The most recent is the question of magnometers on the Temple Mount. The first lie is that it is Haram Al Sharif to the exclusion of the Temple Mount rights of all others, but let's leave that aside today. Last week, two beautiful young men were slain, brutally and with calculated accuracy, by three Arabs, on and around the Temple Mount. Arms were found in the Al Aqsa compound and as a result the Chief of Police decided to place magnometers at the entrances to the Mosque compound. This protects all those normal ordinary Moslems who just want to pray in the 3^rd most holy place in Islam. In both Mecca and Medina magnometers are used at the Holy sites.

Irresponsible Islamic leaders in Israel and outside decided this was too good an opportunity for death and destruction to miss. The vile Sheikh Ra'eed Salah, released from prison, began a campaign of incitement that young Moslems have to protect Al Aqsa from Israeli occupation and destruction of the Holy site (as he did when he removed 700 truckloads of earth and Temple relics under the nose of Ehud Barak, forming an underground Mosque and almost collapsing the entire Mount). The terrorists of last Friday came from his town of Umm El Fachem in Israel. Ismael Haniya sits in Gaza calling for rioting and killing and in the meantime Israel is co-ordinating everything with the WAQF and ensuring them that the status quo remains intact. Today will be tense around the Old City – I both pray for and thank the wonderful police and IDF who protect and keep order.

The Old Lady came to visit, the promises of wealth through killing is fulfilled and yet again Israel is blamed for something she didn't do. It is a case of the child who commits patricide, matricide and then cries that they are orphaned. Incredibly, the possibility that Mohamed Dahlan, leader of Fatah in Gaza, will take over the running of Gaza from Hamas seems almost hopeful!!! http://www.timesofisrael.com/muslim-officials-dangerous-theatrics-at-the-most-incendiary-spot-in-the-middle-east/?utm_source=The+Times+of+Israel+Daily+Edition&utm_campaign=e95d815c7f-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2017_07_17&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_adb46cec92-e95d815c7f-54393189

On rare occasions the film industry produces a movie that is appropriate, timely and honours those who fought that we could be free. "Darkest Hour" is that movie. Sir Winston Leonard Spencer-Churchill, despite his aristocratic breeding and fine education, was a boor. He always said what he thought and his wit did not add to his popularity among his political rivals. He proved to be the only one with the courage to face a diabolical enemy and take him on, for many years almost singlehandedly, but without fear and with great leadership. Ah that Sir Winston were here now, facing an enemy even more dangerous than Nazism, that he were not buried in St. Martins Churchyard, Bladon, near his ancestral home in Woodstock, Oxfordshire. http://www.imdb.com/title/tt4555426/videoplayer/vi818329881?ref_=tt_ov_vi

I will not countenance those who claim "all Moslems are the same" it is no better than anti-Semitism, worse because we should know better. To prove my point………………

Sara Zoabi is a cousin of the vile Haneen Zoabi, Member of Knesset. Sara Zoabi and her son Mohammed, are true Israelis filled with love and gratitude for Israel. I add two wonderful videos – please watch them and show all your friends. Check out Sara's ear-rings in this first one https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZhMfeDPz88  and her words addressed to the Arabic audience, filmed before the Knesset https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tjMNqhlwVwI

Sara light a beacon at the Independence Day celebrations. Eshet Chayil indeed

Nadel Sader is a paramedic with Hazalah and was the first on the scene of last Fridays murderous attack. Don't label people – it doesn't work like that in Israel. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dAMW3-rVeyM

Mohamed Kabiya, and Israeli Arab, confronts an American/Israeli Jew at Colombia University who is embarrassed by and Israeli show of patriotism https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GpivoXoTzmI

Apparently the Greek Orthodox Church has sold large tracts all over Israel, including the Amphitheatre in Caesaria to a mystery buyer. Israel was aware that the 99 year lease on many pieces of land and buildings was almost up and  I am sure that KKL has the funds to buy them or has the ability to raise the funds to buy them so why not? Mystery indeed.

The world has basically turned its back on the people of Syria. Perhaps because there is no good guy, bad guy situation – it became a bad guy worse guy situation with the people dying and suffering and nobody cares. Well not quite true – Israel cares https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dAMW3-rVeyM

The Maccabiah has come to an end. It was phenomenal! They used to say that Jews study and make money but could never be athletes………. They didn't know the Maccabim!! Not only athletes and their families it is one big family gathering with a determination to represent their country with honour and great sportsmanship. The final festivities expressed it all!! 80 countries, 7,000 athletes, every conceivable sport, more than a few romances and great good humour. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CjJs4OUA8d0  I swore to myself that I wouldn't mention names of those I met, because it is the easiest way to offend those who are not mentioned but then……….. how can one refuse Michel Grun? Together with Stuart Lustigman, Michel is an Honorary Life President of Maccabi Europe? There Michel, I mentioned you three times!! Gut Shabbes dear man.

זאל איר שטענדיק שמייכל ווי איר האט דעם וואָך

The 9 days of mourning of the Hebrew month of Av begin next Monday culminating in the 9^th of Av - Tisha b'Av, a day of uncountable disasters in Judaism, of deep mourning and fasting, that sadly too few understand - The destruction of the First and Second Temples, the expulsion from both Spain and England, the list goes on – http://www.chabad.org/library/article_cdo/aid/946703/jewish/What-happened-on-the-Ninth-of-Av.htm

The roads have been clear all week! Schools are out and parents arrive at work in a more staggered manner so the traffic jams are less apparent! It is a joy! In the searingly hot weather we have been "enjoying", nothing makes drivers more impatient than the extreme heat. As my son Gideon used to say – "Israel is the only country where sound travels faster than light" meaning even before the lights change people sound their horns!!!! Since the compulsory introduction of air conditioning in cars many years ago this isn't quite as apparent but still returns when the weather becomes summer! I tend to take the back roads, through the Jerusalem Forest, whenever possible and this week led Rachel and the children through the winding curves of the original entrance to Jerusalem to visit Kibbutz Tzuba – to Galita and the chocolate Factory where the children made their own wonderful and delicious chocolate creations – eating 50% of the raw ingredients before they ever got to the creative stage! Afterwards they went next door into Kiftzuba, a fabulous play area with all sorts of new rides suitable for all ages. Of course Rachel and I went in search of the nearest air conditioner!!!

As we drove through the forest Yosef remarked on the huge tracts of trees and brush and commented "Safta, why don't they build here? There is lots of space and people could afford to buy their own homes". He is right of course, we need to build more affordable housing but I think we should build on the rocky hills rather than the green lung of Jerusalem.

We barely went out onto the veranda this week, the heat was overwhelming 24/7, but last night the breeze and our Jerusalem balmy evening returned. As Zvi came to bed he walked out onto the small veranda which leads off our room, stood with his arms open wide before the phenomenal view, declaring his domain. The wonderful fresh air of a Jerusalem night kissing his arms – a proud Jerusalemite born and bred, standing above the city that he loves.

So what music do you think is appropriate for this week?

Lu Yehi – Let it be – Naomi Shemer heard the Beatles song and recognised how appropriate it was for her beloved Israel – Chava Alberstein https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xJoZ9R4i-N0

It will be good and I am still here – the prophetic words of David Broza "Yiyhe Tov" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qtI7h5A9eEQ

That's all Folks! Sorry Bugs Bunny never came to Jerusalem but I promise he would have loved the carrots!! My supermarket manager tells me all the veggies come on his shelves within 24 hours of being picked – that's Israel.

Shabbat Shalom dear friends. I haven't reminded you of the power of one for a long time so please – use your power and tell everyone the truth, the whole truth not the half-truths of the media.

With love from our veranda to yours.

Sheila

170714 Submarines and telephones, Avi Gabbay, Moshe Yaalon, Amos Yadlin and Maccabiah

170714

14^th July 2017

Shabbat Shalom dear friends. A week of incredible jubilation with the Maccabiah and of confusion and accusations over Telephones and Submarines.

Sadly I must start with the tragic news that three Arab terrorists came in through the Lion's Gate searching for policemen to kill. They shot three and succeeded. There are no Friday prayers on the Temple Mount today.

As you know I try hard not to criticise our leaders – there are enough Israel haters to do that – however - Prime Minister Netanyahu is yet again under the microscope and I am not sure that his vast supply of Teflon will save him this time. As I said many times I did not vote for him and wouldn't vote for him, my reasons are many, but predominantly because he is too easily influenced by those in his Cabinet and too fearful of making brave decisions alone. Our Prime Minister has one aim – to remain in office.

I do not fully understand the "telephone" or communications issue but I know that people close to the PM in the communications field are deeply involved and that Mr Netanyahu determinedly kept the Communications Ministership close, refusing to relinquish it.

The second charge is more serious. Channel 10 investigative journalist Raviv Drukker felt something was not right about the submarine deal with Germany and investigated the issue in depth - and many aspects came to light until, finally, Former Defence Minister and Chief of Staff Moshe "Bogey" Ya'alon spoke out. He said that at the time Israel intended to buy 5 submarines from Germany but that the PM insisted upon 9, which Ya'alon felt was a waste of precious funds. It appears that many people close to the PM could benefit from the sale of additional submarines to Egypt which according to Yair Lapid, Leader of the opposition party Yesh Atid and former Minister of Finance, is tantamount to treason http://www.timesofisrael.com/lapid-says-submarine-scandal-is-worst-corruption-case-in-israeli-history/ ………. I am not on the inside so would prefer to allow Moshe Ya'alon tell you about the Middle East, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the submarine question in an interview with Christiane Annapour http://edition.cnn.com/videos/world/2017/07/11/israel-intv-amanpour-moshe-yaalon-indictment.cnn/video/playlists/amanpour/

I believe that the Prime Minister has done many good things and am willing to accept that, even though the Secret Service updates him on all issues, he didn't know about the activities of his friends; however over the last period he has allowed his political allies to take his policies to a level that has torn both the Israeli society and our Diaspora relations to shreds. Even if he is innocent of all suspicion, it is time to go.

I am thrilled to say that former Prime Minister Ehud Olmert is home with his family and feeling infinitely better. The investigation and trial surrounding his alleged corruption was orchestrated by those who feared his ability as a Prime Minister and leader, almost all the charges were dropped, the much vaunted "Holyland Affair" laid clearly at the feet of others yet he served 19 months in prison over a "slightly illegal" $15,000 campaign contribution. Still felt by most Israelis to have been the best Prime Minister for a long time he is now free and I am happy to say he sounds wonderful. Friends from all over the world are sending him love – at least 90% of his friends have stayed close and care deeply about this very special man and his family.

Still with Israeli politics, the Labour Party has chosen a new leader. Avi Gabbay, born in Jerusalem and just 50 years old, beat fellow Moroccan Israeli Amir Peretz in the final round. While little will change in the Knesset – Gabbay is not an MK and has chosen Yitzchak Herzog to remain as Leader of the Opposition – it shows a big change in voter choice. The Likud voter was traditionally of North African origin and the Labour voter of Eastern European origin and the percentages have changed – certainly on the very Ashkenaz Labour leadership. It pleases me and shows a fascinating demographic change. Gabbay is not left wing, like Izchak Herzog, and may well bring the Labour Party back to its natural centrist position. http://www.timesofisrael.com/avi-gabbay-israels-macron-wants-to-lead-from-the-center/

Yesterday I went to the Jerusalem Press Club to hear a fascinating and erudite lecture by Amos Yadlin, former head of IDF Intelligence. He covered many highly important points in a concise manner. I will try to do the same.

1.The greatest threat to our security, and yours, today is through cyber attacks. Our enemy is not stupid and they have the ability to create total havoc.

2. Amos Yadlin is left wing but he made it very clear that the Obama Administrations decision to disengage from the Middle East, betray Mubarak and leave a vacuum of power which was gladly filled by Russia and Iran. President Trump waded in at the Riyadh Conference and his "no nonsense" policy and acted immediately in the chemical weapons incident in Syria showing that the US is invested in keeping the peace. Through the new policy the Palestinians are no longer the centre of attention – Iran, and as a by-product Qatar, has taken centre stage.

3. An American journalist asked why the PA/Israel situation cannot be resolved quickly like the Americans did with the Marshall Plan. The answer was straightforward. It was not the Americans but rather the Allies together with the Americans and not all wars are fast and then out – Afghanistan is now 15 years; Iraq 8; Vietnam was long. The USA destroyed both Mosul and Aleppo, with vast "collateral damage" without looking back but Israel can't and won't because the world has double standards.

4. With the new Arab alliances Al Sisi of Egypt is pushing for Mohammed Dahlan, Former Gazan security chief, Hebrew speaker, arch enemy of Hamas, to lead Gaza to change.

5. The most important question was "What keeps you awake at night" and the response? "Missed opportunities. Now is the moment to step in and change the paradigm of our region but we have no coherent leadership."

Two leaders, military and secret service, who say it is time for political change.

I want us all to have a good Shabbat so I intend changing the subject completely and move to immense Jubilation and enormous camaraderie as the sportsmen and women of the 20^th Maccabiah come together in competition, excellence and romance. Romance? What do you expect when 7,000 young Jews from 80 countries get together for sport ?

Last week I wrote about the opening ceremony, this week I will talk about those honoured by Maccabi World Union for exceptional service. Tal Brody, the sportsman who came to a Maccabiah to compete and discovered his identity and his home and decided to make Aliya. Tal is so much more than a sportsman; he is a Goodwill Ambassador for Israel. All of the recipients are deserving, Tal; Igal Carmi; King of Hasbara in Spanish Roby Croitorescu; Amnon Inbar z"l; Daniel Jonas; Ricky Reff; Beny Speckman; Jordy Weinstein and Ronald Bakalarz. When Ronald Bakalarz gave the address in the name of the awardees he spoke of another recipient, our friend Guiora Esrubilsky z"l. Guiora was Ronnies best friend and a very special person. His wife Marta and sons received the honour for him but neither words nor awards can express our loss, the loss to the family, friends, the Maccabi movement and to the Jewish world.

We went to the Award Ceremony with Michelle Gandel which made an impressive evening into a wonderful one! Michelle is clever, fun and lovely and most of all a Gandel which means she is a great friend and speaks her mind, my two favourite virtues.

On Saturday night, Sunday and Monday we had three wonderful little girls staying over – Amit, Gili and Ori, the daughters of Zvi's son Leor and his wife Shiri. Since their ages are diverse (11,8 and 5) we thought deeply on what to do with them to ensure excitement and fun. Sunday we took them out for lunch and then to see a Smurf movie and then in the evening, while Zvi went to sing with his choir, the girls and I set off for Mamilla and the "Son et Lumiere" on the walls of the Old City. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NYvFgHwpVsk They were entranced! After the show we went down into Mamilla for a big ice-cream, waffle and home!!! The following morning I gathered my strength and a long list of essential school stationery and we went down to Shouk Ramle and Hannah and Yaacov. It was total chaos, teeming with shoppers and very noisy but thanks to the help of Hannah and Yaacov, and the list, we succeeded in finding everything on the list, right down to the last eraser!!!!

On Tuesday I met with my adored friend  Judith Hallside for lunch and farewell. Judith is moving to Oxford after 37 years in Israel. Jerusalem will always be in her heart and soul but her daughter Michal is drawing her to move. Judith, I wish you all the luck in the world – joy and fulfillment but oh boy will I miss you!

Yesterday we went back to Mamilla to meet with Carlos and Evelyn Hausmann. What a delight! We found it hard to go our separate ways because our conversations could have gone on all day even if it was without the delicious iced coffee and cheesecake

OK. I must go soon because I have to do a bit of gardening on our veranda, see the grandchildren in Givat Zeev while collecting my Challot from Rachel and prepare supper for 12 people. Carlos loves hearing about the veranda and the flowers, well Carlos, the kumquat and lemon trees are in blossom, sadly the orange tree is too hot and won't produce fruit this year; the new hibiscus is blooming, the pomegranate has babies; the geraniums are a blaze of bright colour and the aromatic herbs are looking for a dish to use them to their full advantage.

The view is still hiding behind a heat haze – it really is HOT!

Zvi found this wonderful video of Jewish/Russian Jazz – and I loved it!! https://www.youtube.com/embed/q990AlV0FV0

Lecha Dodi is the song/prayer we sing to welcome the bride of Shabbat. The tune is irrelevant - the words are special. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RWmcQpzUMHY  

With the divisive events of the last weeks perhaps we should end with this song. " behold how good and pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity" Hinei Ma Tov https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dvn_prHzmQk

We wish you a truly beautiful Shabbat, that you find the answers to your prayers and that those answers fulfill your dreams

With love from Jerusalem

Sheila

170707 Eddray, Maccabiah, Shalom

170707

7^th July, 2017

Shabbat Shalom dear friends

60 years ago I was a bridesmaid in a wonderfully frilly salmon pink dress. For whom? For my big sister Eddie who was marrying her handsome soulmate Raymond. Eddie and Ray were so lucky because they both had their parents at their wedding and our maternal grandparents. The ceremony was held in the Cathedral Road Synagogue in Cardiff. Today they live in faraway Toronto and I barely get to see them but I just wanted you all to know that I love them and wish them joy and togetherness with their children Paul and Ruth, their son and daughter-in-law and the grandchildren. Happy Anniversary!!!

There is so much news this week that it is hard to choose what is important to you and what is irrelevant. One item is very close to my heart. A Facebook "friend" wrote to me suggesting that the Middle Eastern problems, especially the Israel/Palestinian issue, could all be settled if only we would all stop acting like children and everybody would give a little. Hmmm. I told him we gave a lot but to no avail. I added a somewhat confusing (for him) statement. As an Israeli I would accept a Hutna, dream of Shalom and pray for Sulcha. In Islam a Hutna is a cease-fire, a convenient truce which one can break at will; Shalom is a temporary peace treaty such as we have with Egypt and Jordan; Sulcha means all is forgiven and forgotten and we can all get on with life. Not sure he will understand – what do you think?

I tend to think of Australia as standing for justice – a belief that was somewhat shattered when I saw this clip from the Australian 60 minutes. This guy makes Hardtalks Stephen Sacker look positively tame but Deputy Minister Tsippi Hotoveli holds her dignity beautifully!!! http://www.israelvideonetwork.com/israeli-deputy-foreign-minister-tore-60-minutes-australia-to-pieces/?omhide=true

Carol Gould, friend, journalist, commentator par excellence and member of BAFTA, wrote about a preview of a documentary on the Syrian Civil War for National Geographic. She was deeply into the movie when something disturbed her deeply – the director made a comment about the consequences of war quoting Dresden and Hiroshima, as if Britain and the Allies were guilty of war crimes. Carol tackled him citing Coventry, Hull, London and the Blitz  – see http://currentviewpoint.com/cgibin/news.cgi?id=11&command=shownews&newsid=1337

Since we are on the subject of things that bother me – UNESCO has outdone itself, much to the chagrin of Ambassador Nikky Haley. Did you know that all the formerly known as Jewish sites are actually Palestinian? What a ludicrous institution the UN is. Not only did it give refugee status ad infinitum but it apparently believes one can change both history and the Biblical truth in a breath. http://www.jpost.com/Israel-News/Politics-And-Diplomacy/Haley-asks-UN-not-to-inscribe-Hebron-on-World-Heritage-List-498680 

Yitzchak "Boughi" Herzog has fallen to the whims of the Labour Party which changes its leaders more than most. In the internal Party votes two other candidates have reached the last round. I am sad because Herzog, a quiet voiced, seasoned politician is one of the last genuine Labour Party followers as the new Labour, or Zionist Coalition, takes over.

http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/232006

Indian President Narendra Modi has just completed a disarming and delightful 3 day visit to Israel. He paddled in the Mediterranean with Prime Minister Netanyahu, I am tempted to say they frolicked!, as the two hugged and smiled their way through the visit. Mr Netanyahu learned to say Namaste and Modi learned a bit of Hebrew. It was the least tense diplomatic visit I have ever known. India and Israel have so many logical ties even though India's economic ties with the Arab world are strong – we are working on that too. http://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/1.799378

So you want to know about determination and pride in being a soldier in the IDF? Meet Ron and you will understand what a humanitarian army we Israelis have and the incredible people who choose to serve. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wrfDYQFKjUg

As a final statement on the idiotic fiasco over conversion I love what Bobby Brown wrote on Facebook – I am in awe of every Jew by choice, each of whose dedication and belief has changed the world for the entire Jewish People. Bobby I second that.

And so to the Maccabiah. Zvi's link to the Maccabiah and of course Maccabi World Union is long and fruitful, culminating in his position today as the MWU representative to the World Zionist Organisation and the Jewish Agency Board of Governors. The various world Presidents of MWU have been close friends and todays President, Leo-Dan Bensky is a fine representative of his country, Finland, and as Ambassador to and of the Jewish World. Proud of you Leo-Dan.

Last night was the official opening ceremony, at the Malha Football Stadium in Jerusalem, of the 20^th Maccabiah Games with 7,000 athletes from 80 countries and a simply stupendous show it was too. President Rivlin, PM Netanyahu stood in the Presidential Box and excitedly waved a huge Israeli flag as athletes paraded country by country. It was truly incredible. The parade started with Australia and went through the alphabet, or more exactly through the Aleph Bet, ending with home country Israel. It was magnificent. Thousands of young Jewish athletes, strong, proud and independent was something my generation is still amazed by and my parents' generation never thought possible. I cannot begin to name all the wonderful people involved in the preparations but Eyal Tiberger is where the buck stops and he can take the worried frown off his face and accept that it was a total success. It was Zvi who insisted that the opening ceremony come to Jerusalem during the Intifada 3 Maccabiahs ago and it is a resounding success with a very different style of pyrotechnics in Malha!!!!!

Prior to the ceremony there was a cocktail where I was delighted to re-meet Col Richard Kemp who came with his two daughters for the Maccabiah. We saw so many friends that I kept losing Zvi and discovering him speaking a different language every time I found him!!!!

There were many highlights but perhaps the greatest was as we left the stadium with Niva and Elihu Ben-Onn and Zvi stopped me beside a lovely young woman in a wheelchair and introduced me. Moran Samuel, Israeli Paralympic athlete and World Cup Gold Medallist for Rowing; if you read her Wikipedia site you are instantly aware of the lack of self-pity and of her incredible love of life. Moran was a basketball player who suffered a catastrophic spinal injury and is paralysed from the waist down but refuses to hear the word "can't".  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moran_Samuel

Indeed as we walked to the car we were passed by "disabled" athletes from every country and the description itself seemed ludicrous – they were a determined and highly "able" group of people who made me proud.

Since the Maccabiah is in Jerusalem I thought it appropriate that you understand the history of this city https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2mR2W43t6tI

I have a very slow day today! Rachel is in London with my sons Gideon and Daniel and their wives, Karen and Stephanie and all the children – Yosef, Sammy, Talia, Olivia, Joshua, Ayala, Zachary and little Callie, not forgetting Maple the dog. It is strange not getting in the car and going to Givat Zeev!!! I hope they are having a whale of a time even though two days ago Joshua fell head first and broke his arm in two places. Josh Posh – feel better beautiful boy.

Zvi has gone to his parliament and then we will go to Amiad, Noga, Ella and Yonatan for our Friday night meal. Zvi already bought the Challot in Mea Shearim (well Rachel is in London isn't she) and decided I should have a total week off and bought a chocolate cake for dessert – Amiad is making his wonderful Salmon and a veggie lasagna so we need something light to finish off – perhaps this is the season of fruit salads, the soft fruits are in season now and are really phenomenal. Our fruits and vegetables are seasonal, meaning they are from tree to kitchen within a day or so which vastly improves the flavour! We have a new fruit this year – red apricots – obviously a hybrid but my goodness, are they delicious.

Jerusalem – a wonderful Reggae song by Matisyahu. Bob Marley would have been proud!!! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iIyp1eIJCgA

Adon Olam – Lord of the Universe  - a familiar song with an Eastern Twist. The Revivo Project https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sgCrmxR_1to

As we were leaving last night we bumped into Oudi Recanati who said that after such an amazing celebration the only song that should end my newsletter is Hatikva. Oudi, your wish is my command. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oSFIgS-uCD0

Shabbat Shalom first to my beautiful children and grandchildren – I am thrilled you are together but spend my time trying to imagine where you are and what you are doing. Happy birthday my Gids.

With love from Jerusalem – beautiful city festooned with Maccabiah flags!

Sheila