They gave and gave .... a tribute to those slain in Mumbai

The Jewish community at large and specifically our beloved Chabad movement has had its heart pierced by unjustified terrorism. In the past, terror attacks have come and gone with dire consequences. The most recent assault on innocent civilians was one that really hit home. The Chabad community lost two important soldiers, Rabbi Gavriel and Rebbetzin Rivka Holtzberg. I personally did not know the Holtzberg's, but I have heard and read that they were special and unique souls.

The latest strike was one on guiltless people who sacrificed their lives for the better of mankind. People who gave up the luxurious life afforded to them in the United States and Israel, to lend a hand to travelers and the Jewish community in India. They inspired countless numbers of people who passed through their Chabad Centre in Mumbai. They fed anyone who happened upon their house. They made sure no Jew who passed through India was left stranded.

Loving parents, devoted emissaries, respected members of their community, a couple dedicated and committed to pure and holy causes stripped of their lives at such a young age. Murdered because they were good people. Singled out because they were Jewish. Cowardly ambushed out of envious hatred by barbaric fanatics.

In a pure attack on Western culture, its people and hatred towards Jewish Zionism, young men completely manipulated and exploited by terror themed camps, taught by the 'elder' as how to operate guns and grenades, not for defensive purposes, but to ensure as much death and terror to those who are non-Muslim. These terrorists snuffed out the lives of many. However, they have not succeeded in their attempt to derail the Jewish flame and have not intimidated the general populace. We valiantly power on, helping and assisting in wiping out terror from society and spreading messages of hope and salvation. We keep in our mind the fresh images of the 'ultimate sacrifices' of that of the Holtzberg's and others whose lives were cut short. We must take some inspiration as to the lives they led and how they taught and embraced Judaism and life. We progress on in their memory.

Of course questions can be asked, why do bad things happen to good people? Why were these people selected and targeted in the terror attacks?
There are no forthcoming answers.

May the deaths of those holy ones be an everlasting reminder of true commitment to genuine causes. They were stationed in India to teach and provide for the community. The Holtzberg's Chabad House, under the guidance of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, was always destined to be their base where they could disseminate their love and affection to Jews of all kinds. They were 'born' in that Chabad house and tragically died there too. It is no coincidence. They selflessly gave and gave, finally succumbing to unanswerable violence.

We do not to death, we do life.

Baruch Dayan Emet -Blessed is the Judge of truth.

Yiddish and New York

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/7739968.stm

Czech this out..... A nice Yiddish piece and New York

November report

Mo(N)ovemeber –  and its tricks.

Well it is that time again, an update of some sorts, due from the North of America, where cold temperatures exist and high ones are sought. The golden leaves have fallen of the trees, coats are being worn and yes, people are just people. The rain descends with precipitation, the Snow has yet to arrive, either has the Messiah.

After a whirlwind trip to Israel, I have returned to pursue my dreams, of obtaining acceptance to practice as an attorney in New York. I have started preparation studies, in familiarising and acquainting myself with American/New York substantive and procedural Law. Being such a diligent and disciplined student, I hold my rope of hope to fare well. (This is where I thank my parents.) So after acquiring some textbooks, some the size of Mt Everest, I have begun the daunting task of preparing myself for the gruesome and horrific New York Bar examination to take place in February 2009.  I have set the goal; I have the task at hand, so waltz with me as I battle the Law front on.

I have also begun the quest, albeit passively at the moment in landing work in the legal field. If anyone knows of someone or something with potential for work opportunity, please do not hesitate in contacting me. I am reliable, hardworking, disciplined, motivated, enthusiastic and of course modest.

My new move is looking bright. I have found a place; I would rather use ‘a place’ than ‘my place’, because I am unsure if anyone can find his or her place in New York. The Statue of Liberty could only find its place on Liberty Island. I rest my case. All in all, I am enjoying the new surroundings and different culture like atmosphere. I like the fact that convenience stores are open 24 hours, with the added bonus of acquiring alcohol. The recent elections and economic financial crisis, which has plagued the markets, is another reason for 24 hour, alcohol selling convenience stores. A coincidence, I do not think so.

I witnessed history in the making during November 2008, as the United States population, (well some of them) voted in a new President. The first coloured man to be elected In America. There were people calling for change, some were calling for a new future, while others said nothing.  History I witnessed, the rest is now shrouded in mystery.

Thanksgiving is imminent; Americans have this holiday celebrating the end of the harvest season. I always welcome in any holiday. Next month Is Chanukah and many other celebrations, ultimately followed By January 19 when the world and I celebrate my Birthday. (Presents and presence are both welcome.)

My Grandmother, Booba Malka, she should be healthy till 120, told me once in the name of the Yiddish writer Sholem Aleichem, ‘that one needs a thousand eyes to cross Broadway’. The eyes represent opportunity. I have this mantra fixed in my mind as I traverse and chase my dreams in America. So I give blessings to one and all, for unlimited possibilities and favourable dreams in the time to come.

Looking forward to hearing from you all.

Have a merry and messy December.

Shlomy

Flight of the Sabra

Some people make lists, where they put together various wishes, things & experiences that they wish to do before they go on to the better world. 

I hope that flying on ELAL Israel Airlines is not one of those wishes.

After recently experiencing one of the most satisfying holidays in Israel, I endured a comedic, danger filled flight with ELAL, from Tel Aviv to New York. I do not intend to report ELAL to the Civil Aviation authorities, but the way Passengers conducted themselves, before, during and after the flight has left me thinking. Do Israeli's really have no manners? Do they think they are superior beings? Is it because they are called Sabra's mean that they cannot sit on their behinds for an extra few minutes, without endangering the lives of fellow passengers? 

I could surely write a whole lot on the incident filled flight. But I'd rather ( if you are brave enough) for you to experience it yourself. 

Seat belts apparently save lives in cars. I assume the seat belts on an airplane is there for protective reasons and not for some fashionable purpose. During the landing stage at New York's JFK Airport, there were young children (all from ultra religious families) found running up the aisles, sleeping under seats and making excessive noise. All at the amusement of their parents. Then of course, before the plane gets to the gate, and whilst still in motion, every Israeli has already unbuckled their belt, retrieved his/her bag and cannot wait the extra minute to disembark. 

Because, they have to be the first one of the plane.

So help me, Lord.

I would like to hear some of your dangerous and hilarious ELAL experiences.