Thursday, April 18, 2013

Yes, Israel is 3,065 Years Old

Nurit Greenger
Modern Israel is only 65 years old but has rich history that goes back over 3000 years.

We, Jews, like to boast about our state but there are many non-Jews, around the world, who like Israel just like we do. You may think they are one of us.

There is much to tell about the modern state of Israel's 65 years history that is summed up here, Israel: 65 Years of Achievements: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kB6AgwmJw5o


All can be summed in one word: PRIDE.

I, for one, am proud of a country that gave me the life of a free, fearless, and proud Jew.

Last night I have attended the Consulate General of Israel in Los Angeles Independence Day-Yom Ha'atzma'ut official celebration that took place at Sinai Temple, Los Angeles, emceed by actor Mike Burstyn, attended by nations' and city officials and over 1000 guests. The food, was prepared by Israeli chefs, specially "imported" for the event, wines, all 'made in Israel' and entertainment by Peter Himelmen (http://www.peterhimmelman.com/home.html).

From L-Mrs. Myra Segal, Los Angeles Mayor, Antonio Villaraigosa with his award by artist Ilan Ashkenzi, Israel Consul General Mr. David Segal-Photo Orly Halevy.JPG  From L-Mrs. Myra Segal, Los Angeles Mayor, Antonio Villaraigosa with his award by artist Ilan Ashkenzi, Israel Consul General Mr. David Segal-Photo Orly Halevy

Here is what needs to be said about a country that has literally emerged from the ashes of WWII, built by a resilient nation that one out of three of its members was murdered by the German Nazi regime.

Israel has compassion and Israelis know and mourn other nation's pain.  Since that yesterday innocent people were killed or maimed in a horrific terror attack during the Boston Marathon, Mr. David Segal, Israel Consul General said, "the people of Israel stay by you [Americans] tonight and forever."

Mark Twain once said, "you know your real friends when the chips are down." Israel had experienced and is experiencing isolation and let downs by many nation and people, therefore it must first count on itself in all aspects.

However, for my fellow Americans, let it be known, Israel is one country Americas can always count on.

Israel knows how to give and receive love; the country extends open arms to all and appreciates the overwhelming love and support many endow on her. The Jewish state constantly forms and strengthens connections and cooperation with any nation that will cooperate with her and show kinship.
From L-David Segal, Israel Consul General, guest Katherine Kahen, Mohamed Samir Helmy, Consul in the consul general of Egypt-Israel and Egypt keep the peace=Photo Orly Halevy.JPGFrom L-David Segal, Israel Consul General, guest Katherine Kahen, Mohamed Samir Helmy, Consul in the consul general of Egypt-Israel and Egypt keep the peace=Photo Orly Halevy

Israel is the center of spirituality; there all monotheistic religions meet, the Jewish, Christian, Moslem and Bahá'í Faith.
Israel is a place many countries can learn from; heads of states, governors of USA states and city mayors, worldwide, make a point to visit the country and find commonality.
Israel is a strong and free democracy with a robust and creative society.
Israel, due to unfortunate reality, has become a military power many armies learn from.
Israelis are creative people; Israel is a giant in science, medicine, agriculture and security innovations…a start-up nation indeed.
Israel is a world center of all type of arts, even culinary art. The Jewish state is a center of diverse and delicious foods prepared by most creative chefs, proud of exporting pizza to Italy and wines to France.
There is much more to list about Israel, but in a nutshell, Israel is a place where everyone, everyday, no exception, can have something in common with the state and her people.
The establishment of the state of Israel has changed the fundamental conditions of the Jewish nation. It has given the Jewish people the opportunity to embark, robustly, in what they were commanded by God to do, which is Tikun Olam, meaning repairing the world.
Jews now stand tall when they sing their anthem Ha'Tikva (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BDxpVasvNPM&feature=player_embedded) and when their blue and white, with the Star of David in the center, national flag waves.
Israel is a small state, the size of New Jersey, but has this huge desire to positively impact the world in any way possible.
Dr. Alastair Conn, Chief of Emergency Services at Massachusetts General Hospital after the terror attack in Boston: Two year ago we have asked the Israelis to help us set up the emergency team in order to be able to respond to such event:  Video: http://www.algemeiner.com/2013/04/15/boston-marathon-blasts-doctor-credits-israelis-with-helping-set-up-disaster-team-video/
On Israel's 65th birthday, I suggest the reader to go see, breathe and taste how one can beat all odds and thrive.
I end up with my blessing, let the only Jewish state on earth go from strength to strength and impact the world in any possible positive way.

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