Fallen Soldier Memorial Day In Israel

Yesterday was Memorial Day here in Israel, the day in which the entire nation remembers those who have given their lives for our country, for our safety, and for us, as a people. One minute of silence is observed country-wide with a siren that sounds in the morning……..and if one happens to be on the freeway at that time, well it is truly a moving sight as all traffic stops and everyone gets out of their cars. I have a feeling this doesn't happen anywhere else in the world, and it is truly a beautiful thing. Despite our differences politically and religiously, at the end of the day we really are one big family, and the loss of even one soldier is a huge loss for us all.

I thought I'd share with you some photos I took recently at the Military Cemetary in Safed, just a few steps from my house. Yesterday as I watched the crowds arrive for the memorlal service in the cemetary as always I thought about what it might be like to loose a loved one to the ravages of war. Really truly very difficult to fathom, and my heart goes out to all those who have lost sons and daughters, brothers, sisters, fathers and uncles. They will never be forgotten.

A gorgeous and peaceful view of Mt. Meron. We visit many historic gravesites around Israel, and I always take note that the righteous seem to be buried in great locations……such is the case here as well.

An olive tree and lovely flowers with sweet smelling alyssium. I can only hope that the sweet smell was a comfort to the mourners yesterday…….there have not been any was casualities from our area for many years, fortunately, so there is no raw pain, but deep sorrow nonetheless. Big sigh and a hope for a world filled with only peace.