Show Your Solidarity - Stand With Israel/Naples
As familiar as the messages "United we stand, divided we fall" or "Strength in numbers" may be to you, it has never been more relevant. A tree is stronger than a twig, a rope is stronger than one of its strands. In these troubled times, a wave of solidarity sweeps over the Jewish people like never before. We reach out for each other, seeking solace and comfort, and even reassurance that tomorrow will bring an end to fighting and terror for our family in Israel. As we pray, we add the name of the missing soldier, Hadar ben Chedvah Leah, that he be returned quickly, alive and well to his family.
This coming Tuesday, the Ninth of Av, we remember the destruction of the two Temples, which occurred as result of in-fighting. Here we sit, miles away from Israel, at times, feeling helpless, but is there really no way that we can make a difference? Is there something we can do for Israel right here and right now?
Yes, there is something we can do.
Our mitzvahs, no matter how small they may seem, perpetuate the legacies of those who have fallen, and ensure the continued safety of our brothers and sisters under attack.
There is more, but it may not be easy and you must be open-minded to suggestion: there may be someone to whom you don't speak, for reasons known only to yourself. They may seem like good reasons to you, but right now we cannot afford divisiveness, so pick up that phone, reach out, and make Shalom. Bring unity where there is division -- this is what Israel needs from you now. The timing is perfect as this week we commemorate the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem some two thousand years ago. The cause of that downfall was the in-fighting and factionalism among the Jews themselves. When we stand united, as a people and as a family, we are invincible.
Stand with Israel -- show your support -- join with the Jewish Professionals of SW Florida in their Israel Solidarity Rally on Sunday, August 3 at 5 PM at the foot of the Naples Pier.
Wishing you a peaceful Shabbat,
Rabbi Fishel & Ettie