I had the privilege of embarking on a transformative journey to Israel alongside 21 other rabbis and organizational leaders from our Atlanta community last week. This meticulously planned trip, in collaboration with JCRC of Atlanta, had been in the works for over a year. Despite a shift in our itinerary due to unforeseen events on Oct. 7, our unwavering focus remained unchanged.
As Pulpit Rabbis and core partners of the Jewish Relations Council of Atlanta and Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta, we were invited to participate in this seminar/mission as influential figures in both the Jewish and non-Jewish communities. The goal was for us to collectively gain insights that would inform our understanding, actions, and plans upon our return. Originally intended to explore various aspects of Israel’s social, civic, political, religious, economic, and military landscape through the lens of community relations, our mission took on a heightened significance given the unique historical moment we found ourselves in.
Our journey was marked by overwhelming challenges to Israel, prompting a call for wisdom about its place in the world. We delved into these challenges from diverse perspectives, returning home impassioned to share our experiences and insights with our networks and the broader community.
The intensity of the experience was palpable. We forged a loving, caring, and open community that collectively experienced a different Israel, fully aware of our responsibility to bring this experience home. Our task was to strengthen relationships within the Jewish community and extend bonds with the broader non-Jewish community and Israel.
During our stay, the rain served as a poignant metaphor for the struggles faced by the nation. It poured relentlessly, a metaphorical expression of the country’s tears. Yet, life in Tel Aviv and throughout Israel buzzed with activity, showcasing resilience amid adversity. We read post-Oct. 7 poetry, such as Michael Zats’ “Illusion,” capturing the paradox of appearances remaining unchanged when everything else had shifted.
Amazing
How everything looks
Unchanged,
Even
When nothing
Remained
The same.
“Illusion” by Michael Zats
The fragility of daily life became starkly apparent on our first day when a siren blared while we were on a bus. In a minute, we found ourselves seeking shelter at a BMW dealership, witnessing the Iron Dome in action. Our encounters included meeting Holocaust survivors with grandchildren held hostage in Gaza and individuals who had lost loved ones on October 7th but remained committed to peace.
Shabbat meals were shared with reservists who had just returned from Gaza’s frontlines, emphasizing the urgency of Israel’s struggle. The definition of victory remained elusive, with diverse interpretations, but the unanimous desire for ultimate peace prevailed.
Our visit to terror sites along the border, particularly the music festival, proved emotionally challenging. The loss of young idealists resonated deeply, and the support of colleagues became essential.
We embarked on this journey not just as witnesses, not merely to show solidarity or build relationships, but as leaders with the responsibility to return home and lead. Processing the profound changes in the Jewish world, we grapple with the challenge of guiding our communities through this collective crisis. We must model dialogue, review our past engagements, and fearlessly embrace creative solutions to emerge stronger, more engaged, connected, and resilient.
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