100219
19th February 2010.
Shabbat Shalom Everybody!
Gosh where do I begin…. This week the view was not from my veranda but rather from Jenin and Gilboa, the Jerusalem Conference and the Conference of Presidents of American Jewish Organisations run by the incredible and indomitable Malcolm Hoenlein http://www.conferenceofpresidents.org/content.asp?id=63 and of course Carolyn Greene who dots the I's and crosses the t's of Malcolm's imaginative programming and brings her own brand of efficiency to the Conference. Firstly I will run through a few news items then go on to try and encapsulate the last few days of information which is currently making my head go round and my heart burst with pride.
I am absolutely thrilled and delighted that even the ultra-left wing British Liberal Party could take no more of Jenny Tonge (Baroness Tonge) after her insane demand to investigate Israel's amazing rescue operation teams apparent organ harvesting activities in Haiti! Her imagination ran away with her and she embarrassed herself, her party and her country. The blood libel is alive and kicking and Jenny Tonge is one of its stars.
The pro-Israel Daily Mail claims that British MI5 was informed before the operation to kill Mahmoud al-Mabhouh in Dubai. The statement has several problems 1. That it was indeed Mossad 2. That the Brits were involved and knew of the identity theft 3. That it is common to hold such exchanges. http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/worldnews/article-1252034/Hamas-assassination-Two-Palestinians-helped-Mossad-agents-murder-plot.html
Several new immigrants from the UK were somewhat dismayed to see their names and passports used in the raid in Dubai and now need to clear their names with Interpol in order to travel! http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3850012,00.html
The Jerusalem Conference opened with a speech by Nir Barkat, Mayor of Jerusalem. The great fuss about the Arab homes in Silwan that he intends pulling down are illegally built when the families came from Hebron over the last 40 years and simply put up homes willy nilly. The Mayor wants to pull those homes down and build a new project with all modern facilities and infrastructure for those same families, for the Arab Jerusalemites! The last speaker of the evening was archaeologist Professor Gabriel Barkay who held us spellbound as he told the ancient wonders he found around the Temple Mount, all of which point to a clear Jewish presence.
Yesterday morning, at the crack of dawn, I found myself on a bus heading due east and then north through the Jordan Valley to the Gilboa region. The Gilboa is predominantly agricultural (apart from the amazing Teflon ski slope under construction!) and is a perfect example of how this country and our region should be. Jews, Moslems and Christians have found harmony and the ability to live and work together. Ead Saleem is the Deputy Mayor of the Gilboa Regional Council and he told us that before the last Intifada, despite enjoying all the rights of being Israeli he would have died before saying he was Israeli – he was Palestinian. In the Intifada he realized how negative hatred is and how working in harmony with his neighbours could bring his town and his people greater benefit from every aspect. He now proudly states that he is an Israeli Citizen. He said politicians think peace and speak war here they think peace, dream peace and create peace. The regional council built an Arab school where Moslems and Christians learn, sing and dance together and the children danced and played for us.
We returned to the bus and drove the fifteen minutes or so to the border and on to Jenin. Jenin amazed me. We parked next to a big fun fair with screaming children on the giant swing. We saw beautiful houses and apparently the camp has been re-housed; near the Jenin government house we walked through a groomed garden surrounded by mansions; we saw a wonderful new museum, large arena and the new administrative building where tables and chairs had been set up for our reception. The Mayor of Jenin spoke first, very party line, and then the Palestinian Prime Minister Dr. Salam Fayyad came to speak to us – surrounded by more security than all of our politicians together! He spoke in perfect English of negotiations and difficulties; of working to build an administrative infrastructure rather than destruction; of stopping terror and incitement; mentioning in passing the usual words of occupation and persecution, but I was amazed to hear him say the magic words "State of Israel" four times!
I was so surprised at the modernity of Jenin and Benny Segall, the Gilboa Regional Chief Engineer explained that he spends a lot of time in Jenin where the Mayor and the Gilboa region are working together to build basic infrastructure to ensure better lives for the Jenin residents and that privately the Mayor of Jenin is truly trying to change his citizens lives and cooperation is total. It is a start. Both Gilboa and Jenin chose to work from the ground up – without politicians and changes are afoot – please G-d they will flourish and grow.
From Jenin to the Kirya – Israel's Pentagon but I cannot tell you anything of what I heard there except to say that I am so proud of our young soldiers and the ingenuity of their officers who encourage brilliant young brains to flourish. Major General Benjamin "Benny" Gantz, Deputy Chief of the General Staff http://dover.idf.il/IDF/English/about/staff/Benny_Gantz.htm spoke of the paradox of today's situation of quiet on all fronts yet the air is filled with aggressive rhetoric and threats with large storm clouds over Iran which is spreading over Yemen, Eritrea, Somalia and further afield. After the briefing we drove to the Museum of the Diaspora where Noam Schalit awaited us. Noam spoke of his son's captivity and he begged the Israeli government to ignore the American request to hold back on the prisoner swap and bring his son home. Politics are irrelevant when ones child is in mortal danger and imprisoned by killers for nearly 1,500 days and nights. Following Noam Schalit we had a surprise visitor – Dan Shapiro of the White House http://www.whorunsgov.com/Profiles/Daniel_Shapiro came to brief us – but I cannot tell you what he said because that was off the record too!!!!
As Noam Schalit was speaking of Gilad, his child, I thought of the song from Les Miserables - Bring him home. Although Dudu sang the part on Broadway I was unable to find his rendition in English – but found it in Hebrew. Dudu Fisher also sang this song before the Pope in the hope of his intervention on behalf of Gilad. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JuonPp2VwpE&feature=PlayList&p=08C1F14D3647E3C3&playnext=1&playnext_from=PL&index=11
I barely touched on the events of this week, leaving huge gaps rather than bore you. I didn't speak of our romantic walk through the Valley of the Cross on Valentines Day – which may seem an odd choice to my religious friends, but the valley is exquisite with wild flowers galore among the rocks, trees and grasses of the park. I didn't tell you that Gloria Goldsein and I had lunch in Mamilla before wandering down through the multifaceted throng of the Old City Shouk, constantly bombarded with anxious stall holders who try to persuade you into their stores in seven languages! I didn't even talk about lunch in the botanical gardens and my grand-children's joy at seeing the fish, swans and turtles in the pond there.
Just another uneventful week in the life of the Ravivs!!!!
I will write a more complete summation of the Conference of Presidents mission – the amazing friends I made - new and old (Hey Joel) and the information gathered. Now I will go out on to the veranda to check that all my beloved places are intact and then will make my home ready for the bride of Shabbat.
Shabbat Shalom to you all from Jerusalem, the ever beautiful and spiritual centre of our world.
Sheila
Showing posts with label hoenlein conference of presidents. Show all posts
Showing posts with label hoenlein conference of presidents. Show all posts
Friday, 19 February 2010
Friday, 20 February 2009
Shabbat Shalom from Sheila
090220
February 20th 2009
Shabbat Shalom, I hope you are well.
When Major-General Avi Mizrahi spoke to his soldiers at Gelilot military base he condemned Turkish Prime Minister Erdogan's foot-stomping departure at the Davos Economic Forum and demand that Israel be cast out of the UN. Maj-Gen Mizrahi said that if Erdogan wants Israel banned from the UN then Turkey should be expelled for the mass murder of Armenians, Kurds etc. We cannot allow another country to dictate what an officer in the IDF is allowed to report to his own troops. Mizrahi should be commended not reprimanded. http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3671618,00.html Ataturk is spinning in his mausoleum; the Islamic domination which led to extreme racism, which he worked so hard to eradicate, is creeping back apace.
Amnesty International has presented a report on the suffering in Gaza in which they disclose Hamas cruelty. http://www.amnesty.org/en/library/asset/MDE21/001/2009/en/9f210586-f762-11dd-8fd7-f57af21896e1/mde210012009en.html
Sport is supposed to be the great leveler but this week Israeli tennis player Shahar Pe'er was denied a visa to the Dubai Open because she is Israeli! Can you imagine if Israel refused a visa to an Arab player? Congratulate the Tennis Channel for opposing the decision media@thetennischannel.com which arguably caused the change in policy (and important precedent) of allowing Andy Ram to play, and complain to sponsors Sony Ericsson global@SonyEricsson.com for allowing it to go ahead anyway.
Hatred is turning me into a Jew. http://www.thejc.com/articles/hatred-turning-me-a-jew is a marvelous article, the writings of Nick Cohen, a British journalist who is not Jewish but inherited his Jewish name from his paternal grandfather.
In response to highly controversial move taken by Lord Nazir Ahmed to ban Geert Wilders from the House of Lords and the House' obsession with Gaza, Baroness Deech gave a thoughtful, considered and proportionate response, http://www.theyworkforyou.com/lords/?gid=2009-02-06a.912.0
Emotionally it is obvious- bring Gilad Schalit home; but at what price? In the "Jibril Deal" of May 20, 1985, 1,150 terrorists were exchanged for three soldiers. Then Defence Minister Yitzhak Rabin (z"l) said that he could not bear the grief of the parents and accepted the exchange. The Jibril Deal taught the Arabs that Israel's weakness lay in her determination to save her boys- and many of those released went on to perform heinous acts of terror costing many Israeli lives. How can one make that decision? I, like Yitzchak Rabin, would find it impossible to look into the eyes of the Schalit family, but how does one look into the eyes of those families decimated by the terrorists we intend freeing?
The Government will be formed by Benjamin Netanyahu. I support Kadima, but will accept whatever government is formed, such is democracy. Kadima has thus far chosen to sit in opposition rather than in a broad government with Likud and Israel Beitenu although President Peres is making strong efforts to change that situation. I believe that taking part in the decision making of this country is the more responsible path. Mr Netanyahu is an able politician, not as right wing as his election rhetoric suggests, and yesterday we heard the much vilified Avigdor (Yvette) Lieberman speak at the Conference of Presidents (more later). While his policies are revolutionary they are issues which must be addressed; conversion, civil marriage for those who cannot be married in the Rabbinate and the "bête noir" of loyalty. Loyalty is not a racist issue; he refers to the ultra-orthodox who mock the State of Israel and kiss Ahmedinejad, Arab MK's who openly incite and support those who would see Israel destroyed, Arabs who are the enemy within (a minority) and finally the "Tsfonim" North Telavivim who do not serve in the IDF. Rights demand obligations. Incidentally if Mr Netanhayu is forced into a coalition with the religious parties those changes are out of the window. http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3674886,00.html
This week Jerusalem hosted the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organisations led by the indomitable Dr. Malcolm Hoenlein, whose brilliance lies not only in organisation but in keeping very high profile, informed Americans interested and stimulated by bringing the most excellent of speakers. As we went into the conference hall Zvi was met by Carolyn Greene, Dr Hoenleins right hand woman, who requested that her kiss with Zvi be officially recorded in this weeks Shabbat Shalom!
My mind is reeling with the essential, positive and deeply disturbing information we absorbed over the last two days. World Islamic Jihad and how to combat it; Israel's defence against the onslaught on our society, and Malcolm's final comments at the conference where he reiterated the fact that Jewish Americans worry about Israel, anti-Semitism in Europe and Latin America not accepting that the USA is as bad if not worse than those countries. American Campuses have become a hotbed of anti-Semitism and unlike communities around the world US Jews have no communal defence or support, the communities are entities not a homogenous group. If attacked American Jews run to the local police but have no first line of defence within the community. I will go deeper into the issue in another letter, my thoughts are so fragmented, but I will analyse and report. In the meantime please read Denis McShane http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/comment/columnists/guest_contributors/article5740603.ece
I know you are waiting for the good news!!!! Well, it rained – unfortunately it tends to wait for the weekend but it rained. Yesterday, when we got home from the conference I opened my window blinds and as they rose on the fabulous view of Jerusalem which always refills my soul…… brown nothingness, the Sahara came to Jerusalem!! The view was shrouded in sandy, mucky dust hanging in the air but magically, during the night, the rain washed the dust away and I awoke to my view of Gilo, Talpiot, Beit Safafa, Baka, German Colony, Katamon and of course the glorious Shkediot (almond trees) in full bloom. It makes me laugh at the way the Tel Avivim race miles and miles to see one singe almond tree in blossom and send out photographs to all their friends. Hey guys, come to Jerusalem, they abound!!!
Finally, we may not have peace with Syria but over 20 truckloads of apples, approximately 8000 tons of fruit, are being exported from Israel to Syria over the next few weeks! The fruit is grown on the Golan and beats anything you guys have!! Our apples are not as big or red but they are fresh! Israeli apples (except the generic Golden Delicious) are eaten within days of picking – our fruit is seasonal – not cooled and kept and stored – fresh! When we go to the shouk the incredible rainbow of fruit and vegetables is all freshly delivered from the source and crunchy and crisp as nature intended.
After two days of lectures I think it is time to do some Shabbat cooking! Zvi will go off to his "parliament" at the petrol station Angel's bakery, where they will shout and yell and argue the toss as if they really had the answers to all the worlds' ills. Danny Liwerant will explain what is happening in Latin America as he did marvelously yesterday. I will happily stay home to prepare Middle Eastern salads and stuff some beautiful multicoloured peppers to give me pause to absorb and evaluate all the information accumulated over the last days so that I can report to you next week!
Have a wonderful Shabbat and don't be downcast, we have been through worse and we always bounce back in a better and wiser form.
With love from Jerusalem, the heart of our world.
Sheila
PS Yitz – I know it is long this week but you should have seen what I cut out!
For those who still have the patience – these oh so relevant words by Rudyard Kipling from his poem IF which were quoted at the Conference by Prof Daniel Freedman – Israel's Minister of Justice.
If you can keep your head when all about you
Are losing theirs and blaming it on you,
If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you
But make allowance for their doubting too,
If you can wait and not be tired by waiting,
Or being lied about, don't deal in lies,
Or being hated, don't give way to hating,
And yet don't look too good, nor talk too wise:
If you can dream--and not make dreams your master,
If you can think--and not make thoughts your aim;
If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster
And treat those two impostors just the same;
If you can bear to hear the truth you've spoken
Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,
Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken,
And stoop and build 'em up with worn-out tools:
And so on and so forth
February 20th 2009
Shabbat Shalom, I hope you are well.
When Major-General Avi Mizrahi spoke to his soldiers at Gelilot military base he condemned Turkish Prime Minister Erdogan's foot-stomping departure at the Davos Economic Forum and demand that Israel be cast out of the UN. Maj-Gen Mizrahi said that if Erdogan wants Israel banned from the UN then Turkey should be expelled for the mass murder of Armenians, Kurds etc. We cannot allow another country to dictate what an officer in the IDF is allowed to report to his own troops. Mizrahi should be commended not reprimanded. http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3671618,00.html Ataturk is spinning in his mausoleum; the Islamic domination which led to extreme racism, which he worked so hard to eradicate, is creeping back apace.
Amnesty International has presented a report on the suffering in Gaza in which they disclose Hamas cruelty. http://www.amnesty.org/en/library/asset/MDE21/001/2009/en/9f210586-f762-11dd-8fd7-f57af21896e1/mde210012009en.html
Sport is supposed to be the great leveler but this week Israeli tennis player Shahar Pe'er was denied a visa to the Dubai Open because she is Israeli! Can you imagine if Israel refused a visa to an Arab player? Congratulate the Tennis Channel for opposing the decision media@thetennischannel.com which arguably caused the change in policy (and important precedent) of allowing Andy Ram to play, and complain to sponsors Sony Ericsson global@SonyEricsson.com for allowing it to go ahead anyway.
Hatred is turning me into a Jew. http://www.thejc.com/articles/hatred-turning-me-a-jew is a marvelous article, the writings of Nick Cohen, a British journalist who is not Jewish but inherited his Jewish name from his paternal grandfather.
In response to highly controversial move taken by Lord Nazir Ahmed to ban Geert Wilders from the House of Lords and the House' obsession with Gaza, Baroness Deech gave a thoughtful, considered and proportionate response, http://www.theyworkforyou.com/lords/?gid=2009-02-06a.912.0
Emotionally it is obvious- bring Gilad Schalit home; but at what price? In the "Jibril Deal" of May 20, 1985, 1,150 terrorists were exchanged for three soldiers. Then Defence Minister Yitzhak Rabin (z"l) said that he could not bear the grief of the parents and accepted the exchange. The Jibril Deal taught the Arabs that Israel's weakness lay in her determination to save her boys- and many of those released went on to perform heinous acts of terror costing many Israeli lives. How can one make that decision? I, like Yitzchak Rabin, would find it impossible to look into the eyes of the Schalit family, but how does one look into the eyes of those families decimated by the terrorists we intend freeing?
The Government will be formed by Benjamin Netanyahu. I support Kadima, but will accept whatever government is formed, such is democracy. Kadima has thus far chosen to sit in opposition rather than in a broad government with Likud and Israel Beitenu although President Peres is making strong efforts to change that situation. I believe that taking part in the decision making of this country is the more responsible path. Mr Netanyahu is an able politician, not as right wing as his election rhetoric suggests, and yesterday we heard the much vilified Avigdor (Yvette) Lieberman speak at the Conference of Presidents (more later). While his policies are revolutionary they are issues which must be addressed; conversion, civil marriage for those who cannot be married in the Rabbinate and the "bête noir" of loyalty. Loyalty is not a racist issue; he refers to the ultra-orthodox who mock the State of Israel and kiss Ahmedinejad, Arab MK's who openly incite and support those who would see Israel destroyed, Arabs who are the enemy within (a minority) and finally the "Tsfonim" North Telavivim who do not serve in the IDF. Rights demand obligations. Incidentally if Mr Netanhayu is forced into a coalition with the religious parties those changes are out of the window. http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3674886,00.html
This week Jerusalem hosted the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organisations led by the indomitable Dr. Malcolm Hoenlein, whose brilliance lies not only in organisation but in keeping very high profile, informed Americans interested and stimulated by bringing the most excellent of speakers. As we went into the conference hall Zvi was met by Carolyn Greene, Dr Hoenleins right hand woman, who requested that her kiss with Zvi be officially recorded in this weeks Shabbat Shalom!
My mind is reeling with the essential, positive and deeply disturbing information we absorbed over the last two days. World Islamic Jihad and how to combat it; Israel's defence against the onslaught on our society, and Malcolm's final comments at the conference where he reiterated the fact that Jewish Americans worry about Israel, anti-Semitism in Europe and Latin America not accepting that the USA is as bad if not worse than those countries. American Campuses have become a hotbed of anti-Semitism and unlike communities around the world US Jews have no communal defence or support, the communities are entities not a homogenous group. If attacked American Jews run to the local police but have no first line of defence within the community. I will go deeper into the issue in another letter, my thoughts are so fragmented, but I will analyse and report. In the meantime please read Denis McShane http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/comment/columnists/guest_contributors/article5740603.ece
I know you are waiting for the good news!!!! Well, it rained – unfortunately it tends to wait for the weekend but it rained. Yesterday, when we got home from the conference I opened my window blinds and as they rose on the fabulous view of Jerusalem which always refills my soul…… brown nothingness, the Sahara came to Jerusalem!! The view was shrouded in sandy, mucky dust hanging in the air but magically, during the night, the rain washed the dust away and I awoke to my view of Gilo, Talpiot, Beit Safafa, Baka, German Colony, Katamon and of course the glorious Shkediot (almond trees) in full bloom. It makes me laugh at the way the Tel Avivim race miles and miles to see one singe almond tree in blossom and send out photographs to all their friends. Hey guys, come to Jerusalem, they abound!!!
Finally, we may not have peace with Syria but over 20 truckloads of apples, approximately 8000 tons of fruit, are being exported from Israel to Syria over the next few weeks! The fruit is grown on the Golan and beats anything you guys have!! Our apples are not as big or red but they are fresh! Israeli apples (except the generic Golden Delicious) are eaten within days of picking – our fruit is seasonal – not cooled and kept and stored – fresh! When we go to the shouk the incredible rainbow of fruit and vegetables is all freshly delivered from the source and crunchy and crisp as nature intended.
After two days of lectures I think it is time to do some Shabbat cooking! Zvi will go off to his "parliament" at the petrol station Angel's bakery, where they will shout and yell and argue the toss as if they really had the answers to all the worlds' ills. Danny Liwerant will explain what is happening in Latin America as he did marvelously yesterday. I will happily stay home to prepare Middle Eastern salads and stuff some beautiful multicoloured peppers to give me pause to absorb and evaluate all the information accumulated over the last days so that I can report to you next week!
Have a wonderful Shabbat and don't be downcast, we have been through worse and we always bounce back in a better and wiser form.
With love from Jerusalem, the heart of our world.
Sheila
PS Yitz – I know it is long this week but you should have seen what I cut out!
For those who still have the patience – these oh so relevant words by Rudyard Kipling from his poem IF which were quoted at the Conference by Prof Daniel Freedman – Israel's Minister of Justice.
If you can keep your head when all about you
Are losing theirs and blaming it on you,
If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you
But make allowance for their doubting too,
If you can wait and not be tired by waiting,
Or being lied about, don't deal in lies,
Or being hated, don't give way to hating,
And yet don't look too good, nor talk too wise:
If you can dream--and not make dreams your master,
If you can think--and not make thoughts your aim;
If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster
And treat those two impostors just the same;
If you can bear to hear the truth you've spoken
Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,
Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken,
And stoop and build 'em up with worn-out tools:
And so on and so forth
Shabbat Shalom from Sheila
090220
February 20th 2009
Shabbat Shalom, I hope you are well.
When Major-General Avi Mizrahi spoke to his soldiers at Gelilot military base he condemned Turkish Prime Minister Erdogan's foot-stomping departure at the Davos Economic Forum and demand that Israel be cast out of the UN. Maj-Gen Mizrahi said that if Erdogan wants Israel banned from the UN then Turkey should be expelled for the mass murder of Armenians, Kurds etc. We cannot allow another country to dictate what an officer in the IDF is allowed to report to his own troops. Mizrahi should be commended not reprimanded. http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3671618,00.html Ataturk is spinning in his mausoleum; the Islamic domination which led to extreme racism, which he worked so hard to eradicate, is creeping back apace.
Amnesty International has presented a report on the suffering in Gaza in which they disclose Hamas cruelty. http://www.amnesty.org/en/library/asset/MDE21/001/2009/en/9f210586-f762-11dd-8fd7-f57af21896e1/mde210012009en.html
Sport is supposed to be the great leveler but this week Israeli tennis player Shahar Pe'er was denied a visa to the Dubai Open because she is Israeli! Can you imagine if Israel refused a visa to an Arab player? Congratulate the Tennis Channel for opposing the decision media@thetennischannel.com which arguably caused the change in policy (and important precedent) of allowing Andy Ram to play, and complain to sponsors Sony Ericsson global@SonyEricsson.com for allowing it to go ahead anyway.
Hatred is turning me into a Jew. http://www.thejc.com/articles/hatred-turning-me-a-jew is a marvelous article, the writings of Nick Cohen, a British journalist who is not Jewish but inherited his Jewish name from his paternal grandfather.
In response to highly controversial move taken by Lord Nazir Ahmed to ban Geert Wilders from the House of Lords and the House' obsession with Gaza, Baroness Deech gave a thoughtful, considered and proportionate response, http://www.theyworkforyou.com/lords/?gid=2009-02-06a.912.0
Emotionally it is obvious- bring Gilad Schalit home; but at what price? In the "Jibril Deal" of May 20, 1985, 1,150 terrorists were exchanged for three soldiers. Then Defence Minister Yitzhak Rabin (z"l) said that he could not bear the grief of the parents and accepted the exchange. The Jibril Deal taught the Arabs that Israel's weakness lay in her determination to save her boys- and many of those released went on to perform heinous acts of terror costing many Israeli lives. How can one make that decision? I, like Yitzchak Rabin, would find it impossible to look into the eyes of the Schalit family, but how does one look into the eyes of those families decimated by the terrorists we intend freeing?
The Government will be formed by Benjamin Netanyahu. I support Kadima, but will accept whatever government is formed, such is democracy. Kadima has thus far chosen to sit in opposition rather than in a broad government with Likud and Israel Beitenu although President Peres is making strong efforts to change that situation. I believe that taking part in the decision making of this country is the more responsible path. Mr Netanyahu is an able politician, not as right wing as his election rhetoric suggests, and yesterday we heard the much vilified Avigdor (Yvette) Lieberman speak at the Conference of Presidents (more later). While his policies are revolutionary they are issues which must be addressed; conversion, civil marriage for those who cannot be married in the Rabbinate and the "bête noir" of loyalty. Loyalty is not a racist issue; he refers to the ultra-orthodox who mock the State of Israel and kiss Ahmedinejad, Arab MK's who openly incite and support those who would see Israel destroyed, Arabs who are the enemy within (a minority) and finally the "Tsfonim" North Telavivim who do not serve in the IDF. Rights demand obligations. Incidentally if Mr Netanhayu is forced into a coalition with the religious parties those changes are out of the window. http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3674886,00.html
This week Jerusalem hosted the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organisations led by the indomitable Dr. Malcolm Hoenlein, whose brilliance lies not only in organisation but in keeping very high profile, informed Americans interested and stimulated by bringing the most excellent of speakers. As we went into the conference hall Zvi was met by Carolyn Greene, Dr Hoenleins right hand woman, who requested that her kiss with Zvi be officially recorded in this weeks Shabbat Shalom!
My mind is reeling with the essential, positive and deeply disturbing information we absorbed over the last two days. World Islamic Jihad and how to combat it; Israel's defence against the onslaught on our society, and Malcolm's final comments at the conference where he reiterated the fact that Jewish Americans worry about Israel, anti-Semitism in Europe and Latin America not accepting that the USA is as bad if not worse than those countries. American Campuses have become a hotbed of anti-Semitism and unlike communities around the world US Jews have no communal defence or support, the communities are entities not a homogenous group. If attacked American Jews run to the local police but have no first line of defence within the community. I will go deeper into the issue in another letter, my thoughts are so fragmented, but I will analyse and report. In the meantime please read Denis McShane http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/comment/columnists/guest_contributors/article5740603.ece
I know you are waiting for the good news!!!! Well, it rained – unfortunately it tends to wait for the weekend but it rained. Yesterday, when we got home from the conference I opened my window blinds and as they rose on the fabulous view of Jerusalem which always refills my soul…… brown nothingness, the Sahara came to Jerusalem!! The view was shrouded in sandy, mucky dust hanging in the air but magically, during the night, the rain washed the dust away and I awoke to my view of Gilo, Talpiot, Beit Safafa, Baka, German Colony, Katamon and of course the glorious Shkediot (almond trees) in full bloom. It makes me laugh at the way the Tel Avivim race miles and miles to see one singe almond tree in blossom and send out photographs to all their friends. Hey guys, come to Jerusalem, they abound!!!
Finally, we may not have peace with Syria but over 20 truckloads of apples, approximately 8000 tons of fruit, are being exported from Israel to Syria over the next few weeks! The fruit is grown on the Golan and beats anything you guys have!! Our apples are not as big or red but they are fresh! Israeli apples (except the generic Golden Delicious) are eaten within days of picking – our fruit is seasonal – not cooled and kept and stored – fresh! When we go to the shouk the incredible rainbow of fruit and vegetables is all freshly delivered from the source and crunchy and crisp as nature intended.
After two days of lectures I think it is time to do some Shabbat cooking! Zvi will go off to his "parliament" at the petrol station Angel's bakery, where they will shout and yell and argue the toss as if they really had the answers to all the worlds' ills. Danny Liwerant will explain what is happening in Latin America as he did marvelously yesterday. I will happily stay home to prepare Middle Eastern salads and stuff some beautiful multicoloured peppers to give me pause to absorb and evaluate all the information accumulated over the last days so that I can report to you next week!
Have a wonderful Shabbat and don't be downcast, we have been through worse and we always bounce back in a better and wiser form.
With love from Jerusalem, the heart of our world.
Sheila
PS Yitz – I know it is long this week but you should have seen what I cut out!
For those who still have the patience – these oh so relevant words by Rudyard Kipling from his poem IF which were quoted at the Conference by Prof Daniel Freedman – Israel's Minister of Justice.
If you can keep your head when all about you
Are losing theirs and blaming it on you,
If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you
But make allowance for their doubting too,
If you can wait and not be tired by waiting,
Or being lied about, don't deal in lies,
Or being hated, don't give way to hating,
And yet don't look too good, nor talk too wise:
If you can dream--and not make dreams your master,
If you can think--and not make thoughts your aim;
If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster
And treat those two impostors just the same;
If you can bear to hear the truth you've spoken
Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,
Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken,
And stoop and build 'em up with worn-out tools:
And so on and so forth
February 20th 2009
Shabbat Shalom, I hope you are well.
When Major-General Avi Mizrahi spoke to his soldiers at Gelilot military base he condemned Turkish Prime Minister Erdogan's foot-stomping departure at the Davos Economic Forum and demand that Israel be cast out of the UN. Maj-Gen Mizrahi said that if Erdogan wants Israel banned from the UN then Turkey should be expelled for the mass murder of Armenians, Kurds etc. We cannot allow another country to dictate what an officer in the IDF is allowed to report to his own troops. Mizrahi should be commended not reprimanded. http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3671618,00.html Ataturk is spinning in his mausoleum; the Islamic domination which led to extreme racism, which he worked so hard to eradicate, is creeping back apace.
Amnesty International has presented a report on the suffering in Gaza in which they disclose Hamas cruelty. http://www.amnesty.org/en/library/asset/MDE21/001/2009/en/9f210586-f762-11dd-8fd7-f57af21896e1/mde210012009en.html
Sport is supposed to be the great leveler but this week Israeli tennis player Shahar Pe'er was denied a visa to the Dubai Open because she is Israeli! Can you imagine if Israel refused a visa to an Arab player? Congratulate the Tennis Channel for opposing the decision media@thetennischannel.com which arguably caused the change in policy (and important precedent) of allowing Andy Ram to play, and complain to sponsors Sony Ericsson global@SonyEricsson.com for allowing it to go ahead anyway.
Hatred is turning me into a Jew. http://www.thejc.com/articles/hatred-turning-me-a-jew is a marvelous article, the writings of Nick Cohen, a British journalist who is not Jewish but inherited his Jewish name from his paternal grandfather.
In response to highly controversial move taken by Lord Nazir Ahmed to ban Geert Wilders from the House of Lords and the House' obsession with Gaza, Baroness Deech gave a thoughtful, considered and proportionate response, http://www.theyworkforyou.com/lords/?gid=2009-02-06a.912.0
Emotionally it is obvious- bring Gilad Schalit home; but at what price? In the "Jibril Deal" of May 20, 1985, 1,150 terrorists were exchanged for three soldiers. Then Defence Minister Yitzhak Rabin (z"l) said that he could not bear the grief of the parents and accepted the exchange. The Jibril Deal taught the Arabs that Israel's weakness lay in her determination to save her boys- and many of those released went on to perform heinous acts of terror costing many Israeli lives. How can one make that decision? I, like Yitzchak Rabin, would find it impossible to look into the eyes of the Schalit family, but how does one look into the eyes of those families decimated by the terrorists we intend freeing?
The Government will be formed by Benjamin Netanyahu. I support Kadima, but will accept whatever government is formed, such is democracy. Kadima has thus far chosen to sit in opposition rather than in a broad government with Likud and Israel Beitenu although President Peres is making strong efforts to change that situation. I believe that taking part in the decision making of this country is the more responsible path. Mr Netanyahu is an able politician, not as right wing as his election rhetoric suggests, and yesterday we heard the much vilified Avigdor (Yvette) Lieberman speak at the Conference of Presidents (more later). While his policies are revolutionary they are issues which must be addressed; conversion, civil marriage for those who cannot be married in the Rabbinate and the "bête noir" of loyalty. Loyalty is not a racist issue; he refers to the ultra-orthodox who mock the State of Israel and kiss Ahmedinejad, Arab MK's who openly incite and support those who would see Israel destroyed, Arabs who are the enemy within (a minority) and finally the "Tsfonim" North Telavivim who do not serve in the IDF. Rights demand obligations. Incidentally if Mr Netanhayu is forced into a coalition with the religious parties those changes are out of the window. http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3674886,00.html
This week Jerusalem hosted the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organisations led by the indomitable Dr. Malcolm Hoenlein, whose brilliance lies not only in organisation but in keeping very high profile, informed Americans interested and stimulated by bringing the most excellent of speakers. As we went into the conference hall Zvi was met by Carolyn Greene, Dr Hoenleins right hand woman, who requested that her kiss with Zvi be officially recorded in this weeks Shabbat Shalom!
My mind is reeling with the essential, positive and deeply disturbing information we absorbed over the last two days. World Islamic Jihad and how to combat it; Israel's defence against the onslaught on our society, and Malcolm's final comments at the conference where he reiterated the fact that Jewish Americans worry about Israel, anti-Semitism in Europe and Latin America not accepting that the USA is as bad if not worse than those countries. American Campuses have become a hotbed of anti-Semitism and unlike communities around the world US Jews have no communal defence or support, the communities are entities not a homogenous group. If attacked American Jews run to the local police but have no first line of defence within the community. I will go deeper into the issue in another letter, my thoughts are so fragmented, but I will analyse and report. In the meantime please read Denis McShane http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/comment/columnists/guest_contributors/article5740603.ece
I know you are waiting for the good news!!!! Well, it rained – unfortunately it tends to wait for the weekend but it rained. Yesterday, when we got home from the conference I opened my window blinds and as they rose on the fabulous view of Jerusalem which always refills my soul…… brown nothingness, the Sahara came to Jerusalem!! The view was shrouded in sandy, mucky dust hanging in the air but magically, during the night, the rain washed the dust away and I awoke to my view of Gilo, Talpiot, Beit Safafa, Baka, German Colony, Katamon and of course the glorious Shkediot (almond trees) in full bloom. It makes me laugh at the way the Tel Avivim race miles and miles to see one singe almond tree in blossom and send out photographs to all their friends. Hey guys, come to Jerusalem, they abound!!!
Finally, we may not have peace with Syria but over 20 truckloads of apples, approximately 8000 tons of fruit, are being exported from Israel to Syria over the next few weeks! The fruit is grown on the Golan and beats anything you guys have!! Our apples are not as big or red but they are fresh! Israeli apples (except the generic Golden Delicious) are eaten within days of picking – our fruit is seasonal – not cooled and kept and stored – fresh! When we go to the shouk the incredible rainbow of fruit and vegetables is all freshly delivered from the source and crunchy and crisp as nature intended.
After two days of lectures I think it is time to do some Shabbat cooking! Zvi will go off to his "parliament" at the petrol station Angel's bakery, where they will shout and yell and argue the toss as if they really had the answers to all the worlds' ills. Danny Liwerant will explain what is happening in Latin America as he did marvelously yesterday. I will happily stay home to prepare Middle Eastern salads and stuff some beautiful multicoloured peppers to give me pause to absorb and evaluate all the information accumulated over the last days so that I can report to you next week!
Have a wonderful Shabbat and don't be downcast, we have been through worse and we always bounce back in a better and wiser form.
With love from Jerusalem, the heart of our world.
Sheila
PS Yitz – I know it is long this week but you should have seen what I cut out!
For those who still have the patience – these oh so relevant words by Rudyard Kipling from his poem IF which were quoted at the Conference by Prof Daniel Freedman – Israel's Minister of Justice.
If you can keep your head when all about you
Are losing theirs and blaming it on you,
If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you
But make allowance for their doubting too,
If you can wait and not be tired by waiting,
Or being lied about, don't deal in lies,
Or being hated, don't give way to hating,
And yet don't look too good, nor talk too wise:
If you can dream--and not make dreams your master,
If you can think--and not make thoughts your aim;
If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster
And treat those two impostors just the same;
If you can bear to hear the truth you've spoken
Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,
Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken,
And stoop and build 'em up with worn-out tools:
And so on and so forth
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