Slice of Life

It had been a heartwarming Shabbos. When my daughter and son-in-law got married last year, the final Sheva Brachos took place over Shabbos. It was an uplifting weekend that allowed us to connect more personally with my son-in-law’s extended family. We shared the first two meals at shul, but Shalosh S’udos was held in the more intimate setting of our home. After Havdalah, joyful singing broke out. But then, suddenly, it stopped. The celebration turned to tears.

Miracles surround us. All day. Every day. We wake up to incredible stories, and we go to sleep hearing even more. We barely process one before another one unfolds.

The chupah was in progress when a red alert siren pierced the air. Guests looked at each other, unsure of what to do. A few people moved quickly. Others hesitated. Most stayed in place, watching the Iron Dome’s interception light up the sky above. Despite the momentary tension, the wedding continued as planned.

In an age often driven by speed and innovation, the voices of the elderly can become quieted or forgotten. About 1.2 million citizens, who are aged 65 and over, live in Israel today, making up 12 percent of the population. Many of these citizens face isolation and loneliness. In response, many initiatives have emerged to reconnect generations, restore dignity, and enhance the quality of life for older adults. The following highlights just a few of these inspiring efforts.

Yishai*, who lost his arm in an accident, continues to pursue his love of the guitar by playing notes with his remaining hand and strumming using a foot-operated device. Dani* lost all five fingers of his dominant hand in a snowstorm in Nepal. As an accountant, he spends a lot of time on the computer. A specially designed glove with a 3D-printed “finger” enables him to type just as quickly as someone without a disability.

Every year, the official state ceremony marking the end of Yom HaZikaron and the beginning of Yom HaAtzmaut (Independence Day) takes place on Har Herzl in Yerushalayim. The Speaker of the Knesset officiates at this nationally televised event, which is attended by government ministers, members of the Knesset, IDF commanders and veterans, diplomats, and selected citizens.