160318 Meir Dagan zl, Russian withdrawal Syria, Purim

160818

18^th March, 2016

Shabbat Shalom dear friends. Shabbat Shalom from beautiful Jerusalem.

Meir Dagan passed away this week. May his soul rest in peace for he has definitely earned his place in heaven.
As a young man he was given a photograph of his grandfather, Zvi. The photograph was of his grandfather being beaten and derided by the Nazis just before they killed him. Dagans parents managed to survive and escaped Russia while he was a small child and the family came to Israel. The young Meir swore to his grandfathers picture that such horrors would never happen again.

As Head of the Mossad, Dagan lead with a hard hand and great love for his soldiers. He blew up both the Iranian and Syrian nuclear facilities, presenting photographs of the destroyed Iranian facilities on the desk of the American Security Chiefs, saving Israel and the world from horrors of gigantic proportions. He also ensured that several of the most nefarious among the terrorist leaders of ISIS, ISIL, Al Qaeeda etc, met their doom.  His love and deep respect for Prime Minister Ehud Olmert was legendary, and their work together was seamless, Olmert backing Dagan's decisions, recognizing his superior knowledge.  Sadly his relationship with our current PM was not quite as smooth.

While watching Israel Channel 10, I learned an enormous amount about the leader and the man from an outstanding report by Alon Ben-David, who brought us the man and the deeds.
Meir Dagan, hero, leader, determined soldier who protected his people from another Holocaust and made his late Grandfather Zvi proud. To his family he was a loving, husband, father and grandfather  - ברוך דיין אמת

Russia pulled out of Syria. Well actually, Russia pulled her fighting troops out of Syria. They went in to support the evil Assad, which may seem a strange thing to do, but in fact the evil Assad is a mere pussy cat next to those who took advantage of a civil revolt against a dictator and brought with them a regime far, far more dangerous and certainly more evil than Assad could even dream of.  Actually, I haven't heard the inane expression "The Arab Spring" for some time now – I wonder why!

Talking of Russia, Israel's President Rivlin visited Russia this week. It appears to have been  successful visit, both leaders prepared to listen. In the meantime a former President, Moshe Katzav, brought his case up for review with the possibility of early release. It is now in the hands of the Attorney General since Katsav has never shown any regret for his actions or admitted he did anything wrong. It is a tough decision.

I am the first to acknowledge my own ignorance on certain parts of Israels history. While at a wonderful reception for the launch of our dear friend Dr. Motti Friedman's new book about Herzl, I not only learned a great deal about Herzl himself but also about Operation Agatha "Black Sabbath", when the British army took action against the Lehi. Worth reading – this report doesn't take sides. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operation_Agatha

Anyway, Motti's book delves deep into the man and the motivation of Herzl. Apparently his charisma was vast, enabling him to reach many leaders who knew nothing of him or his dream. Herzl's greatest achievement was not really the re-creation of the State of Israel, but rather of his determination to create a common purpose behind which to unite the Jewish Diaspora . His World Jewish Council, from Basle onward did just that. Sadly today we are going in the opposite direction, not understanding that dream, how essential it is that we pull together rather than forming factions, fighting factions over who is superior. The book is in Hebrew but the moment it is published in English I will let you know. http://www.booksefer.org/index.php?dir=site&page=catalog&op=item&cs=56247&langpage=heb&category=26672

I loved this video telling us exactly how to Boycott Israel properly https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=45Rkjp0rU-o

It is so difficult to understand statistics and the sheer numbers of people in this world. Watch this and you will get it! If the world were just 100 people, a brilliant explanation of our world in just a few minutes. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BxXmTGBMYhw

You already know how I admire the Maccabi World Union people. Their motivation, like Herzls, is to unite the Jewish world, but under the umbrella of sport. We are approaching the next Maccabiah already! On April 20, Maccabi USA will kick-off their fundraising efforts for the 2017 World Maccabiah Games with their 20^thMaccabiah Launch Gala at Gotham Hall in New York City. Funds raised from this event will be used to ensure that qualified Jewish athletes from the USA and around the world are able to participate at the 20^th World Maccabiah Games in Israel, Summer 2017, where 1,200 American Jewish athletes will join 8,000 athletes from 75+ countries to compete for Jewish pride, for country, and to unite as one Team in support of Israel. You can be a part of Team USA by supporting the 20^th Maccabiah Launch Gala! www.501auctions.com/maccabigaladinner

As I was driving over Samuels Hill, next to Samuels Tomb, I slowed the car down to take in the panorama and see how many towers and steeples I could count!!! It started with the Calatrava Bridge, working through to Augusta Victoria and the radar tower of the Hebrew University on Mount Scopus. In my very limited glimpse there were about 10 prominent ones and in Jerusalem's crazy building spree many more are coming up but not of the historic variety, rather to provide dwellings for Jerusalemites. Had I glanced to the left rather than the right I would have seen Ramalla, with an equal number of high rises, but all new, al built recently, all during the time that Israel is told to stop building in disputed territory. Annoying? Yes.

The EU has built more than 1,000 buildings on that self same disputed territory that they tell Israel not to build on!!!!! http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3480561/Outrage-EU-claims-diplomatic-immunity-using-aid-money-meddle-Middle-East-building-disputed-West-Bank-land.html

Purim is approaching and the fancy dress costumes are out in full bloom!!! Still a very few Queen Esthers but little Israeli girls are just like little girls everywhere and Nici, Elsa, Batgirl and so on are the favourites with boys still going for cowboys and Superman! Supermarkets are filled with the makings of Mishloach Manot – food parcels for others – for friends and family. Mini packaging of all sorts of goodies, joined by home made Hamentaschen are the usual contents – happy children delivering and receiving. Here Rabbi Jeremy Rosen explains Purim; Serious or Fun http://jeremyrosen.blogspot.co.il/

I am inordinately proud of the IDF. Israelis defy Maslo's pyramid of needs, not only by being happy but despite imminent danger we still reach out to those less fortunate. Watch this and feel yourself swell with pride – I did. https://player.vimeo.com/video/154464174 By the way, Angelina Jolie came to visit IsraAid aid camps in Greece this week. Tikkun Olam indeed.

Our veranda is ablaze!! I have never seen anything quite like it. My petunias have opened in one carnival of colour, absolutely smothering the entire wall. It makes me smile! I love seeing the results of planting a tiny little seedling and reaping the reward of gentle nurturing. It's a bit like Israel Advocacy – one plants seeds of truth, ensure they are watered by compassion and watch the fruits of our labour.  Yes, I still believe in the power of one.

So Shabbat is close – Zvi's birthday cake is made and iced and the food is ready. Actually I didn't have to work because we are going to the inlaws for Friday night and to celebrate – they still don't want me to work!!! Rachel made the Challot and I know they are incredible because she saved a little one for me to have for lunch!!!

When you arrive at Ben Gurion Airport you will see this amazing display. The 50 Most important Israeli discoveries http://ex.most.gov.il/en/

This week I give you the Chief Cantor of the IDF singing the Prayer for the safety and peace of Israel. So moving. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Q5--mNIZhU He talks of his pride at singing with the IPO giving such honour to the song and its meaning.

Yaakov Shwekey sings this emotive song of a child in the Holocaust. I cannot quite decide why this is so appropriate today – perhaps because I see what is happening around the world and fear a recurrence of evil. It starts with a beautiful Yiddish cong that my Mummy used to sing to me as a child. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GKGyI88ZkS8

With love to all of you from Jerusalem, this incredible city of love that incurs such hatred.

Shabbat Shalom dear friends, Shabbat Shalom

Sheila

150306 Netanyahu in Congress, Purim

150306

6th March 2015

Shabbat Shalom dear friends. Shabbat Shalom and Shushan Purim Sameach.

Shushan Purim, the day after regular Purim (the 14th not the 13th of Adar) is celebrated in walled cities around Israel. Why? Well the battle against the people of Shushan, who were filled with deep hatred for the Jews, lasted an extra day, so while the Jews of other cities rested and celebrated on the 13th of the month of Adar the brave soldiers of Shushan continued their battle an extra day so their day of celebratory victory came one day later. So here in Jerusalem we read the Megilla ( the story of Esther) on the eve and day of the 14th, today. More of that later!

This week has been very emotional for both Israel and the USA. Should he shouldn't he? Why is it such a big deal? What is so insulting about a speech? What business is it of Israel to speak out about Americas Iranian policies? Why insult your closest ally? Well, sorry, but I refuse to comment on the rights and wrongs but simply say that it was a brilliant and highly respectful speech. Time will tell of the wisdom of Mr Netanyahus determination and resolve to speak out about Iran but I wanted to give you just one quote and ask if it in any way seems insulting to America or the American President. The final words of Benjamin Netanyahus speech

"Moses gave us a message that has steeled our resolve for thousands of years. I leave you with his message today, ‘Be strong and resolute, neither fear nor dread them.’ חִזְק֣וּ וְאִמְצ֔וּ אַל־תִּֽירְא֥וּ וְאַל־תַּעַרְצ֖וּ מִפְּנֵיהֶ֑ם

My friends, may Israel and America always stand together, strong and resolute. May we neither fear nor dread the challenges ahead. May we face the future with confidence, strength and hope.

May God bless the State of Israel and may God bless the United States of America. Thank you. You are wonderful. Thank you, America.” 

The Arab world agrees with Prime Minister Netanyahu! Actually the Sunni world agrees with him and Saudi Arabia in particular. Al Arabiya complimented him on his accurate assessment of the situation! Before their fight against the West Shia Iran's hatred for Sunni Saudi Arabia is paramount. Indeed Sunni-Shia hatred is above any other fight. http://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-16047709

Col. Richard Kemp, British soldier, soldier and spokesperson for Israel feels  there are striking similarities between the objectives of Churchill's speech nearly 75 years ago and Netanyahu's today; both with no less purpose than to avert global conflagration. And, like Churchill's in the 1930s, Netanyahu's is the lone voice among world leaders today.

I would not have made the comparison, but, Winston Churchill was unsuccessful in his quest that the USA fight beside him against Hitler and also unsuccessful in persuading Roosevelt to bomb the railway lines to Auschwitz. History does repeat itself because we forget - we live today forgetting that today is built from a million yesterdays.

Who would understand Israel's position better than a Czech President?

“Now we all must say, ‘I am a Jew,’” he told a packed auditorium in Washington, DC. After extended applause from the audience, he repeated the sentiment in Hebrew, saying, “Ani Yehudi.”  “Of course, your discrimination is our discrimination,” he added. “Your victims are our victims.” http://www.algemeiner.com/2015/03/02/czech-republic-president-milos-zeman-we-all-must-say-i-am-a-jew/

 

Dr Dan Schuftan spoke at the Centre for Jewish Affairs in London. His speech was eloquent, erudite and amusing, telling the absolute truth about Israel, the Middle East and the world. Well worth listening. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h9ZQGiBubb0&feature=youtu.be

One of my readers castigated me for not writing about the diabolical, terrorist killing of Dan Uzan z"l, a volunteer guard of a synagogue in Copenhagen three weeks ago. I was remiss, not because I didn't care but because I was remiss. I do not compare my error to the omission of any reference of ethnic slaughter of Christians and other religious minorities around the world - Nigeria, Yemen, Syria, Egypt, Philippines, Iraq, I could go on ad infinitum or should I say ad nauseum because it sickens me that the media ignores these atrocities completely. Know that I honour the memory of Dan Uzan, but mine was an accidental omission, not the medias intentional and politically motivated disregard of the suffering of millions of Christians, Yazidis, Assyrians and so many others. Balance. Quite apart from the fact that I was in hospital undergoing surgery when I wrote two weeks ago.

This week in the Judaism, we read about a weak leader, a strong and ill-intentioned royal advisor, and the victory of a wily Uncle and his beautiful brave niece. In our celebrations we are not allowed to hate our enemies, not even Haman. We are instructed to drink until tipsy, until we cannot distinguish between friend and foe, to forget hatred and blame. Adloyada - Until he will not know. Festivity, dancing and joy there is no religious vengeance in Judaism. Haman coined one of the most infamous anti-Semitic canards: That the Jews are a clannish and alien people who do not obey the laws of the land. At Haman's contrivance, a decree is then issued for all Jews in the Persian Empire to be massacred. But, as the Book of Esther subsequently relates, Haman’s plot was foiled and, “The Jews had light and gladness, and joy and honor...a feast and a good day.” How does it relate to today apart from the obvious Iran/ Persia plot?  Read Jeremy Rosens wonderful piece this week, "Purim Torah" http://jeremyrosen.blogspot.co.il/

Talking of Adloyada, that is the name of the Carnival of Israel! Towns hold their Adloyada Carnivals in the main streets, children and adults dressed up and dancing, floats of brightly coloured laughing tableaux of Purim and politics, music, sweets and Hamentaschen!!!  Most important are the children, well this is Israel after all! Each school gets to parade https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSZgsW2imHY While I am not thrilled with the music this video gives a better view! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ImekKsGi5M

Isn't it strange how perception is rarely close to truth? When the uninitiated talk of Israeli apartheid they not only insult a monumental and historic struggle for freedom in South Africa but totally misrepresent Israel. Last night I had cause to go for tests at a walk in emergency unit. No don't worry it was only tests, and looked around at both patients and medical staff. A fantastic mix of Jerusalems rainbow. Doctors, nurses, laboratory staff an equal mix of highly qualified Arabs, Jews, Moslems, Christians, men and women and the patients sitting with uncharacteristic patience we of an even greater mix! This is Israel. Whether directors of vast hospitals or shop assistants in Kosher delis - there is no discrimination. Fine restaurants or local Mahedrin Kosher felafel stalls - you will see every possible combination of race, colour and creed. That is what i love best about Israel. Perhaps the ultimate example is the Arab "Rag and Bone" man who calls out "Alteh Zachen"as he passes ( alteh zaken is old things in Yiddish!)

Today is a glorious day. The sun is shining, the air has a seasonal crispness and the spring flowers dance in the breeze. The desert is blooming literally, pink wild cyclamen, bright red poppies and anemones and a wild panoply of colour as the sun shines on the rain drenched earth proving yet again that the Negev desert is fertile, just parched.

As the very noisy and celebratory Shushan Purim draws to a close it will bring several hangovers but more importantly it brings the peace of Shabbat. 

  

Shabbat. Shabbat. A day of rest. The first song we will sing in the synagogue is Lecha Dodi, Come Friend, which welcomes the bride of Shabbat as she enters our homes, bringing light and joy https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gx4IaNQGo4I

Shebahi Yerushalayim ( Bless Jerusalem, Bless the Almighty) , one of my favourite songs. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ByWfUx0QnyE

Finally, Judaism is feminist! Yeah, yeah, yeah, I hear the gasps of dismay! Truly, by the standards of time, not of todays determination to be the same, the prayer, the blessing of the woman of the household every Friday night at the Shabbat table, is exceptional. Read the words with the wisdom of history, not of today. Eshet Chayil - Woman of Worth https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yh-JCjOraTs

Actually, today Zvi is the feminist (he is anyway). I don't need to cook today since we are invited out but being Israeli one always takes at least one dish to the host's table. Today a delighted Zvi is cooking!!! Normally he complains that I have either already prepared everything or that I won't let him in the kitchen! Today he is preparing his two favourite salads - Potato salad (known in the States as Russian salad) filled with potato, onion, gherkins, peas and carrots; the other is known in our house (by Zvi anyway) as "The best salad in the world" - Zvi's courgette salad! A wonderful mix of grated courgette and onion, lightly caramelised, then cooled and mixed with grated hard boiled egg and mayo - it is delicious!!!!

So dear friends, another week of world problems and personal joy.

I leave you with the clever Pat Condell on British Universities and freedom of speech. Don't be smug - it is true of the University near you too. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5XPHIfgFwsY&feature=em-subs_digest

I wish you a Shabbat Shalom and much love from our beautiful, sun drenched, thriving and vibrant city - Jerusalem.

Sheila

Just in - news of a terror attack http://www.bicom.org.uk/news-article/24687/

-- 

If the media does not inform us we must inform the media

Sheila's blog http://shabbatshalom-theviewfrommyveranda.blogspot.com/

Facebook      Sheila Silver Raviv
Involvement   http://www.impact-se.org/   http://www.yurishtern.org.il/eng/content.php?id=17

150227 ISIS Nineveh, Obama-Netanyahu, Rubio, BOG Gantz, IsraAid, Purim

150227

27th February 2015

Shabbat Shalom dear Friends. I hope this missive finds you well.

Just as I think we cannot be more deeply offended by the vile behaviour of ISIS by any other name, something else happens. The sheer inhumanity of their slaughter has gone beyond our worst nightmares exceeded by their determination to destroy history lest it contradicts their invented present was seen in Afghanistan and now in Mosul, ancient Nineveh, the destruction is recorded to prove their superiority. http://www.memritv.org/clip/en/4801.htm

I stay out of mudslinging and personal views of the American Administration. I care only that the administration makes decisions that are best for America. The highly personal row between an American President and the Israeli Prime Minister has become filled with unbecoming rhetoric. Deeply personal criticism by John Kerry, snidely suggesting that Mr Netanyahu doesn't know what he is talking about offends me deeply. Believe you me Mr Kerry, for us the enemy is not many thousands of miles away and our SecretService has been doing this for longer than yours. The nuclear devices may hit us on their way to Washington and New York - and head for Washington they will. It is not Mr Netanyahus speech that will affect the outcome of the Israeli elections,  most are ready for change anyway, but the derision with which the White House treats the PM may just cause the Israelis to vote for him!!! Senators Rubio and Ayotte say it best.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ODjcm7U4lo0 http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/191893#.VO9l9PmUePn

An American jury reached an historic decision regarding the responsibility of the Palestinian Authority for terror attacks, specifically during the 2nd Intifada. The precedent was set by the Lockerbie decision  making Libya liable for compensation to the families of those killed and other Libyan initiated attacks. Targeting civilians was "standard operating procedure" for the Palestine Liberation Organization, Fatah and the Al Aqsa Martyrs Brigade, plaintiffs' attorney Kent Yalowitz told jurors when the trial began. Yasser Arafat, the PLO's longtime chairman and the PA's president, controlled all those entities. Arafat's handwritten consent appears on PA documents detailing payments to terrorists and their families that were later seized by Israel. Those records became key evidence showing the PA's knowledge and support for the bloody wave of terror attacks. One 2002 report sent to the PA's General Intelligence Service chief praised a West Bank squad for its "high quality successful attacks." http://www.investigativeproject.org/4784/jury-finds-palestinian-authority-liable-for#  The PA claims they don't have the money - so where did all that aid go?

The US Consulate in Jerusalem asked New York City Councillor David Greenfield to remove his Kippa when visiting Ramallah "for security reasons" and found nothing odd in their request. I am proud to say the Councillor Greenfield refused. http://www.algemeiner.com/2015/02/26/new-york-councilman-visiting-ramallah-refuses-to-remove-kippah-when-asked-by-us-consulate-security/

This week the Board of Governors Meetings of the Jewish Agency took place in Jerusalem. Zvi did not manage to go to all the meetings, busy taking care of me, but he managed to go to several. The speaker that impressed him most of all was  former Chief of Staff Benny Gantz, for the first time wearing his "civvies" rather than his IDF uniform. Gantz outlined the major issues before the assembled leaders from around the world explaining that he leaves Israel with many problems but that his successor Gadi Eizenkott is more than capable of dealing with any danger that presents itself.

1. The Iranian situation. Gantz said he has nothing against Persians but their regime invokes deep concern

2. In countries to the North of Israel,  2 evil entities are fighting for control, religious control - the Shiites and the Sunnis. They are not armies but rather ideals which is a problem that NATO did not recognise for many years but now they do.

3. The aim of ISIS, clear in their name, is to make the entire ME ( and world) one Caliphate -  "The End of Sykes-Picot", from the 1916 secret agreement between France and Britain that split the Arab provinces of the Ottoman Empire after World War I. They do not recognise any other entity.

4. Our internal problems can only be dealt with by encouraging social solidarity, not divisive policies.

5. Your role. Our role. Diaspora communities and the relationship with Israel must be nurtured. It is now of paramount importance from every aspect. Only by combatting ignorance with knowledge about this area in general and Israel in particular can we influence others. Learn and disseminate.

Finally, Lt General Gantz spoke of the lone soldiers. Boys and girls who volunteer to make Aliya and enlist in the IDF while their families are overseas. He asked us all to take care of them. http://www.fidf.org/page.aspx?pid=282

 

The Diaspora issue is addressed by Yair Lapid in this excellent letter to the Guardian Newspaper concerning the hundreds of artists who signed a petition condemning Israel. http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/feb/19/why-no-petition-to-protect-jewish-people?CMP=share_btn_link

IsraAid, founded and run on a shoestring by the amazing Shachar Zahavi, is the jewel in the crown of Israels outreach to those in need. While governments ponder, IsraAid acts. You already know about Haiti, Phillipines, New Jersey, and so many other places in turmoil but this latest IsraAid project deserves more funding and more publicity.  Relief for the Yazidis of Northern Iraq http://mfa.gov.il/MFA/ForeignPolicy/Aid/Pages/IsraAID-scales-up-winter-relief-operation-in-northern-Iraq-9-Feb-2015.aspx

Charlie Chaplin was not known for his politics, rather for his portrayal of the little man who proved to be our hero. Never more than in this video, the final speech from the movie The Great Dictator https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QcvjoWOwnn4

If you ever have doubts about Israeli behaviour in Operation Protective Edge - just watch this https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nKKM3GvjRa8

Almost Purim. What is Purim and what do we celebrate? That's not so difficult - Wicked Vizier, weak King with an eye for a pretty lady and an overpowering wife, decision to kill Jews, wisdom won through and yet again we eat at the end.  Why do we dress up? Once upon a time we dressed up as Queen Esther or Mordechai and the bad boys were Haman. Why do we get Tipsy? So we won't be able to differentiate between friend and foe thus not hate anyone. One needs to be either blind deaf or dumb - actually all three - not to recognise the similarities between today and those days of yore. I saw the similarities but Rabbi Jeremy Rosen recognised another similarity - between now and Munich.  http://jeremyrosen.blogspot.co.il/ -

 

Israel is awash with "Hamantaschen" Pastry triangles alternatively called Hamans Ears,  Hamans Hats, Hamans Pockets in fact almost anything that relates to Haman! These delicacies can be traditional, filled with either dried, spiced fruit or poppy seeds, or with just about any sweet or savoury delicacy the conditory can invent including Green Tea!!! http://www.timesofisrael.com/green-tea-hamantaschen-in-paula-shoyers-kitchen/

We haven't had a Hebrew lesson for ages, so now is the time for a spectacularly Israeli phenomenon. The MAKOLET. Makolet, convenience store, corner shop, neighbourhood grocery and general meeting place. In most countries the makolet has given way to large conglomerates and supermarkets but here they are a growing business, rather than closing down they are thriving!!! Our makolet owner is Oren and he knows everyone by name. If someone is missing a carton of milk or a pat of butter he will have one of his people pop it round in a jiffy, or one can make large orders - all free delivery and one can pay tomorrow or the next day. The young men who work with him, Itzik, Bar and Uzi, are equally fun and Orens fruit and vegetables are the very best in town. When you go to the makolet for HALAV (milk), BAYTZIM (eggs), SHOKO, a delicious chocolate milk shake which traditionally came in individual plastic bags that children successfully bite off the corner and drink; for YERAKOT (vegetables) or PAYROT (fruit) you will find everything from simple potatoes and onions to crispy asparagus and long white leeks straight from the ground. Peppers,PILPEL, juicy red, yellow, orange and green or tiny multicoloured sweet peppers not to be confused with the fiery PIPEL HARIF (hot peppers) or three types of courgette - in fact everything is so diverse including the shapes because we don't necessarily eat the evenly shaped ones - we sell them to you!!! I always choose the Siamese twin bananas, the bulbous cucumbers or the piggy back peaches just because that's how nature made them, not straight and tasteless but strange and scrumptious!! 

If you doubt for one minute that Israeli food is the freshest and best just read this! http://www.timesofisrael.com/israelis-among-the-healthiest-eaters-study/

That's it! Time to make my final touches for Shabbat. Zvi has been absolutely phenomenal this week, taking care of me, cooking, tidying and entertaining visitors. He really proved his nurturing side! My neighbour Shoshana came bearing food and the other neighbour Michal baked a cake but other than that he took on his role with great good nature.

It may sound strange but last Friday, waking from the anaesthetic I looked up at both Zvi and my wonderful eldest son Daniel and felt great gratitude and love wash over me- Dan, you are such a special person, you and your beautiful family. This week our second eldest grandson Samuel was 10 years old. Sammy, you have taught us all the meaning of absolute love, absolute trust and fine dining!  I am the luckiest person in the world that all three of my children and both of Zvi's and their partners in life, exude love and are really good people. Lucky, lucky, lucky. 

Tomorrow Steve and Shuli Daren are coming to visit and various other friends- I am so much better but haven't managed to get out for a whole week! Unfortunately that meant that I haven't seen Rachel and her family this week since they have all been struck down with flu - real flu and not very nice at all. Wishing them better soon.

Shabbat Shalom everyone.  Hope you have a wonderful Shabbat filled with love, contemplation and peace.

This week I realised once more how fortunate I am as I lay in bed absorbing the view of Jerusalem from our window - The View from Our Veranda!

Love

Sheila

-- 

If the media does not inform us we must inform the media

Sheila's blog http://shabbatshalom-theviewfrommyveranda.blogspot.com/

Facebook      Sheila Silver Raviv
Involvement   http://www.impact-se.org/   http://www.yurishtern.org.il/eng/content.php?id=17

Shabbat Shalom from Jerusalem. Wales, Jeremy Rosen, Scarlett, Purim

‎140321

21 ‎March ‎2014

Shabbat Shalom dear friends.

So here I am back in Jerusalem after a truly amazing time in the UK with my glorious grandchildren and my loving family. I know how popular it is to "knock" the UK but I enjoyed every second of my visit, am delighted by the warmth and civility of the people, their friendly smiles and incredible willingness to help. I needed to change trains at one of the oldest stations which still has static stairs and everyone, passengers and staff alike, carried, guided, smiled and expressed great warmth. I have never hidden the fact I am Israeli and it has never held me back. I know how popular it is to "knock" the UK but I still get a strong sense of that British Bulldog country that stood up to Hitler and fought so bravely alongside her "Empire". I am sorry Lyse but I blame the BBC for the frightening turn of public opinion against Israel- half a truth is an outright lie.

Did you know that the Crimea was a peninsula? Did you understand the complexities caused by Kruschevs drunken decisions. Wow.

Today the Jerusalem Marathon will halt traffic and interfere with life, but I don't mind. 25,000 people, including the Mayor of Jerusalem Nir Barkat, will run either half or full marathons through the streets of the city, both old and new and a sense of festival will descend upon this wonderful place. There is an expression here in Israel "Kol siba lemesiba"- every reason for a party. Hope the runners enjoy the crisp and beautiful air and remember to thank G-d for their energy and this day. Shabbat Shalom to everyone https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LidyxT3UgIs 

This has been a week of confusion and concern that an entire aeroplane can simply disappear. Indeed, not just disappear but disappear after a strange series of events in which the pilot/s divert from the accepted routine. The Australian government has announced that large pieces of fusilage have appeared on their satellite surveilance screens and their navy is currently heading for the site. AUSTRALIA? The aeroplane's flight plan was in the opposite direction! Was there an attempted hijacking? Did the passengers foil a plot? http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-26659951

The direction of the so-called peace talks between the Israeli government and the Palestinian Authority is directed by the American government, with all good intentions, but the truth will out as always. It is becoming clearer and clearer that Israel wants the talks to lead to a rational status quo but the Palestinians want to win. Neither the rhetoric of public speaking nor the  hypocrisy of diplomatic talks can be taken as the truth - but any leader who goes to his people, as Abbas did yesterday, and tells them not to worry they will win in the final decisions, is not serious about a peaceful conclusion.Abbas: I Am a Hero. I Said No to Obama by Khaled Abu Toameh  http://www.gatestoneinstitute.org/4224/abbas-obama-no

When you hear that the IDF has uncovered an arms tunnel between Gaza and Israel I am sure you think of a skinny, muddy, very basic construction. That is far from the truth. These tunnels are often large enough to transfer vehicles, certainly men, they are well lined with cement, yes the very cement that the Western leaders told us we had to transfer to Gaza because they poor souls couldn't build housing, and solidly and professionally constructed. This particular tunnel was packed with an entire arsenal and emerged next to a kibbutz, a pastoral haven threatened by terror. http://www.timesofisrael.com/idf-says-large-terror-tunnel-from-gaza-discovered-near-kibbutz/ 

I often quote Rabbi Jeremy Rosen especially when he discusses the Haredi community in Israel and their refusal to give back to the country of their birth and the governments attempt to change the status quo.  The sad fact is that one section of our people has come to expect the other to go to war and die to defend them. That cannot be an ethical position, even if you do believe that serving God is the highest good. Not only, but the bill is offering an alternative to military service; it is called community service. It has even included an agreement with Chabad to exempt a number of young men from community service in Israel to serve communities abroad.  http://jeremyrosen.blogspot.co.il/

Maurice Ostroff is an exceptionally erudite gentleman and write beautifully about important ossues. His article in the American Thinker concerning Israeli borders and wrongful perceptions thereof is well worth reading. "Conventional Wisdom (CW) is often very wrong. Millions believed the earth is the center of the universe and that smoking is not harmful to human health. So too, CW is wrong about about the "Green line" that delineates the positions of the opposing forces when armistice agreements were concluded in 1949. Politicians who should know better have mistakenly swallowed the factoid that this Green line is a recognized border in terms of international law. But there is no such law.  An armistice is not a peace agreement. It is merely a temporary suspension of hostilities with a view to negotiating a more lasting peace agreement as fully set out in Security Council resolution 242. While there is no legal justification for CW calls for an agreement based on the 1949 armistice lines, there is a binding legal agreement that is highly relevant to determining Israel's future borders. At the San Remo conference in 1920 the Balfour Declaration became entrenched in international law and legally enforceable. The agreement has never been abrogated and is therefore still binding on the parties." http://www.americanthinker.com/2014/03/factoids_and_the_green_line.html

Scarlett Johanson is a rare and special person in tinsel town, she actually cares and has a conscience. The huge furore about her advertisement for Sodastream has not sent her into an hysterial tizzy but rather brought out the strong moral woman in her. I am delighted to announce that unlike Rhett Butler, Scarlett really does give a damn. http://www.theguardian.com/film/2014/mar/16/scarlett-johansson-stands-by-sodastream-deal

There are so many high-points in my visit to the UK, apart from my morning hugs with the children. Purim was special on two counts; one was the special needs service in the synagogue for our beautiful Sammy, thoroughly enjoyed by all of us and the other was the amazing Purim service, the reading of the Story of Esther. The entire synagogue was filled with wildly dressed congregants bearing noisemakers and shakers ready for the name of the dreaded Haman......... even the Rabbi was dressed as a pirate!!! I love the fact that the emphasis was on the fact that we beat an evil Persian leader who wanted to kill us and beat him by our intelligence and wiles. My favourite part is not just Esthers brilliant tactical moves but rather when the King Ahasuerus asks Haman what he would like for the Kings favourite person and then turned the tables on Haman and put Mordechai on his white horse paraded through town as a hero while Haman.................. well Haman was hanged from a high gibbet! Shushan, Persia, Iran, who said history doesn't repeat itself?

My journey down to Wales brought back a million memories. Visiting our parents in the old cemetery with my sister Doreen we passed the graves of so many people of our past (Julia K - I saw your family graves). I was not surprised to see our parents gravestones were leaning toward each other - just as they did in life. Driving around the old streets, walking around my family home, now my brothers home, having dinner with my sisters family, spending time with my brothers family, managing to see Yaffa and Martin and talk of cabbages and kings, and of course my delight when Valerie and Martin drove from Reading to have dinner in a wonderful old pub and came to see my children. Valerie and I "grew" our children together, had a business together and saw each other every day - that sort of love and friendship never changes, you just continue the conversation. Other than that I missed meeting more friends than I can count but I want them to know they are in my heart but I go to the UK to see my children and my siblings. 

  

I want you to hear three generations of singers from the Land of Song, from Wales. First is Harry Secombe, late beloved comedian (The Goon Show) singing of his Welsh home, the Rhondda Valley https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dm93QW08yZQ Next is Tom Jones with Amazing Grace https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V5HMIxuAtv8  finally "Only Boys Aloud" at the final of Britains got Talent singing my very favourite Welsh song Calon Lan which I used to sing as a lullaby for my own children. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C06NhCkAjXk

So, here I am back as delighted at the view from the veranda as I was the first time the electric blinds rose to reveal it. I see Jerusalem preparing for Shabbat. The sounds are different to last week in London, even the aromas reflect a different ethnic background but the hustle and bustle of preparations and shopping for Shabbat are the same. Whether you buy your Challot from Ami in London or from Nehama in Jerusalem it is irrelevant. The traditions are the same. I love to see the similarities, the Shabbat table, candles, kiddush, challot and shining childrens faces just as we did at our parents table. 

Back in Jerusalem, the city I love, back with my Israeli grandchildren, back in Israel I thought you would like two  diverse songs about this special city. First is the phenomenal Ofra Haza rendition of Jerusalem of Gold at Israel's 50th anniversary celebrations https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YIWhct2v6ok.  At the other end of the musical range  I love this song and the video - "Happy" by Pharrell Williams in Jerusalem!  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-oszKeU7lEs&feature=youtu.be

I wish you and yours a Shabbat Shalom, I wish those members of my family and friends who need our prayers a full recovery and all my love. I wish my wonderful friend Canon Andrew White a safe return to his beloved Iraq and blessings on his tireless determination to perform the miracle of peace. Andrew dear, if only we could clone you!

I am off to see my Jerusalem Grandchildren, to tell them stories about their cousins who love them and they love right back. So Shabbat Shalom dear friends, Shabbat Shalom from Jerusalem.

With love

Sheila

-- 

If the media does not inform us we must inform the media

Sheila's blog http://shabbatshalom-theviewfrommyveranda.blogspot.com/

Facebook      Sheila Silver Raviv
Involvement   http://www.impact-se.org/   http://www.yurishtern.org.il/eng/content.php?id=17

Shabbat Shalom,the Coalition, Ice City

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22^nd February 2013

Before wishing you Shabbat Shalom........... Happy Birthday Sammy Samsam!! Happy birthday wonderful eight year old.

Now Shabbat Shalom to you all, Shabbat Shalom and Purim Sameach. Remember that Purim is the story of a clever man with a brave and beautiful niece who together saved the Jewish people from a Persian tyrant. Worth thinking about.

I must start with a very sad story. Sad because it shows how one idiotic telephonist can ruin the good will of an amazing organisation and cause heartbreak and ill health. An Arab Israeli woman in Beit Safafa, right near our home, called Natali ambulance service because her husband was ill. The operator, after a period of waiting told her that they would not come out because Beit Safafa is an Arab neighbourhood. I am disgusted and angry, Beit Safafa is a good neighbourhood of Jerusalem not some crazy wild place! I wish I could find that lady and apologise to her. I am ashamed. http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-4347966,00.html

We still don't have a government and it seems to be getting further and further from actually happening. The PM brought in Tsippi Livni's “HaTnuah” offering her Peace Talks with the Palestinians. This horrified both Bennet and Lapid who have formed their own coalition, preferring to sit in opposition than agree to sit with Livni and Shas. Decision will hav eto be made by the PM or we are off to another round of elections and he would not win – Yair Lapids “Yesh Atid” and Bennet's “Jewish Home” would. Gosh it is frustrating!!

The Israeli press, obviously bored with the election/coalition saga has been concentrating on truly important matters – the PM's monthly ice-cream bill. Honestly! They make out as if it is just his family without any thought of the staff, security and guests!The only good thing about the idiotic story is that the ice-cream parlour right near the PM's home has tripled its business from the advertising!!!

After the Bulgarian investigation proved that Hezb-Allah was behind the Burgas bus bomb; the Cypriots have arrested others who were plotting attacks on Israelis. Despite this, and the strong advice of the USA and the UK, the Europeans still refuse to declare Hezb-Allah a terror organisation!

Underestimating threats is the greatest disease of the Western World. I don't know if it is arrogance or ignorance, but it is not good. When Iran threatens to wipe out its enemies – we negotiate. Now North Korea has threatened to "eliminate" South Korea - which barely hit the news and they forgot to report when North Korea threatened to "eliminate" the USA but no-one seems bothered. http://www.examiner.com/article/nkorea-threatens-final-destruction-aimed-at-south-korea

Nigeria, threatened by the Islamic extremists in its midst, decided to show that she is not willing to accept their form of terrorism. Their example should be followed http://www.thetimesofnigeria.com/TON/Article.aspx?id=3831

Because we are different to our neighbours, we upgraded Palestinian electricity lines for free!

http://www.mfa.gov.il/MFA/HumanitarianAid/Palestinians/Israel_upgrades_electricity_lines_Gaza_3-Feb-2013.htm#.URK091dNqSN.twitter

You absolutely must read this article from Melanie Phillips. It describes the torture of defending liberty and freedom of press in "liberal" Europe http://www.melaniephillips.com/the-terminal-poison-of-the-european-liberal

This week saw many wonderful people who care about the Jewish world arriving in Jerusalem for the Board of Governors of the Jewish Agency meetings. Both plenum speakers and individual committees made important decision and Zvi was involved in the meetings. For me it was a time to renew old friendships and to my delight I even had time to sit and talk with Leonard Cole who told me all about his latest bookhttp://www.jstandard.com/content/item/how_to_plan_for_a_disaster/25099 and with Yocki (Johanna) Arbib, the young World Chair of Keren Hayesod who I met an incredible 20 years ago and so many more. I get so excited when you tell me that you feel informed by my letters – it is so important to me.

One of the best aspects of old friends visiting is that we take the time to see museums. Our lovely friends Nattie and Yolli Zonzsein came to Jerusalem and we went to see the new Herod exhibition in the Israel Museum. The site of Herodian is just outside Jerusalem, in the West Bank. The site remained untouched and the artifacts hidden during both Jordanian and PA times. Israeli archaeologists have uncovered wonders , during years of meticulous work, discovering the burial site of Herod himself. What do the NY Times, LA Times et al say about this wonderful exhibit? That we “stole” the artifacts – Herod is now Palestinian according to the NY Times! The exhibit is phenomenal, the detailed explanations exceptional. Well worth seeing. Indeed it is so good that Zvi took David and Anthea Same from Melbourne to see it the very next day! We had fun and then all of us went to Zion ha Gadol for lunch http://www.imj.org.il/exhibitions/presentation/exhibit.asp?id=850

The next day we went to the opening of the new exhibits in the Mamilla Mall. Our wonderful friend Irit Levhas three gorgeous models on show – I think among her best. Sitting in Aroma coffee shop after the reception, together with friends of Irit and Itziks from Seattle who were amazed at the variety of both passers-by and diners. They couldn't believe that Jews of all types, Moslems, Christian priests, tourists and Israelis all melded together in the wonderful atmosphere of this open air Mall next to the Jaffa Gate! Yes, the Jerusalem Rainbow is the best people-watchers view!

As we were looking at Irit's statues some young men were taking a photo of it. Of course Zvi and I went to talk to them and ask them if they wanted to have a photo with the artist. Of course they said yes and we began to speak to them. They were from Beijin, were thrilled to visit Israel and amazed at how open and fun Jerusalem was. They intended going home with their photos to persuade everyone to come!!!

Yesterday evening was a triple joy!!! Our friends Danby and Marvin Meital invited us to go with them to the opening night of “Ir ha Kerach” or Ice City. It began with an incredible show with skating acrobats from China which delighted and then moved on to the central attraction and we froze! No I mean WE FROZE! We wore our huge down coats, two sweaters, hats gloves and scarves (and Ir haKerach handed out more coats to visitors) and entered a fairyland of ice. The Summer Palace, Dinosaurs, fish and creatures, a coloured labyrinth, a carriage, indeed so much the eye could barely absorb it all – and all made of ice. Phenomenal!http://www.gojerusalem.com/discover/item_13730/Ice-City-International-Ice-Festival-in-Jerusalem After that the tourism office took us to the premiere of a new show AH! JERUSALEM which is performed three times a week , in English, and tells the story of Israel in a truly amusing, wonderfully musical and entertaining show.http://www.timesofisrael.com/ah-a-jerusalem-premiere/

“The Voice” has overtaken the world and Israel is no exception. Two finalists are Lina Machul a young Arab girl from Akko (Acre) and Ataliyya a Black Hebrew from Dimona – see for yourself

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tn4_5Yd6ie8 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7F59p9_AJaM

I just took a break from you guys to go and visit my glorious grandchildren in Givat Zeev. I love getting them showered and dressed for Shabbat and hearing about their day. Their Mummy, my daughter Rachel, has created an epicurean festival as she prepares the food for Shabbat. I thought I was good at preparing a myriad of salads by my Rachel puts me to shame!! The children were gleaming and scrubbed – waiting for Shabbat as they helped their Mummy set the table, as their Mummy used to help me – tradition, tradition, tradition. It is who and what we are. I know I always wax lyrical about the view from Samuel's Tomb but...... oh I cannot resist it!!! This time of year the incredible sight is enhanced by puffs of pink and white blossom on every clear space as the wild almond trees, the shkediot, create pinks clouds among the white buildings of the landscape. This is the time that Jerusalem is waking up after winter – the shekdiot, the calaniot (bright red poppies) covering grassland and desert alike after the rains, rakefot (cyclamen peeping out from every rock, hanging on precariously to show off her beautiful pink flowers. So beautiful.

Today I am not cooking, thanks to Harold Finger who is here with his family to celebrate his 60^th birthday. We are very excited to be invited to join them in “Spoons” the wonderful home of Hila Solomon, in Yemin Moshe. Harold has taken the path from Young Leadership through to Jewish Australian leadership, taking his natural progression as his responsibility. Leadership demands responsibility and Harold accepts his with a smile. HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAR HAROLD.

The parking lot of the shopping mall is emptying, the shops closing, the shopkeepers and workers alike wending their weary way home. This has been a very busy week for them. Fancy dress costumes of every conceivable variety and baskets for “Mishloach Manot” the Purim gifts that one gives out to friends and workmates. Mishloach manot is not just sweeties and chocolates, it originates as a gift to those who did not have enough food to celebrate the festivities – and should also contain food of value- not just calorific value!!!

My best moment today was when I was leaving my grandchildren the little one, Ayala, came running towards me with my Mishloach Manot – “just because I wanted to give you something Safta, it's Purim”

Dear friends, Shabbat is drawing near and then Purim – we must remember that Purim is the story of a cruel Persian tyrant who wanted to kill all the Jews, but was outfoxed by a clever man and his incredibly brave young niece. We are still fighting Persian tyrants, they still want to kill us and now all we need is a good Mordechai and Esther plot!!!

Shabbat Shalom, sorry todays was a long letter but, hey, we did so many things this week!!!!

With love from Jerusalem, the most beautiful rainbow in the world