Day: February 20, 2024

Visiting the Shura Army Base in Israel provides a profound reflection on the resilience and dedication of those who serve in one of the most heart-wrenching roles within the military: the identification and preparation of fallen soldiers for their final journey home. This task, imbued with a profound sense of duty and respect for those who died על קידוש השם, demands a level of emotional and psychological fortitude that is hard to fathom. Since October 7, the soldiers at the Shura Base have faced days that have been intensely more demanding and emotionally taxing than any they have collectively experienced before.

Confronting the aftermath of battle and the personal toll it exacts brings forth a torrent of emotions and questions. One might wonder, “How do they manage? Could I ever bear such a burden?” These are natural contemplations, stemming from a place of empathy and self-reflection. Indeed, not everyone is equipped to handle the direct consequences of terror and war; the horror and tragedy of such circumstances require a particular kind of courage and strength that only some possess.

However, the visit to such a place should extend beyond mere observation; it should challenge us to introspect about our own capacities and limitations. It should prompt us to consider what it means to step out of our comfort zones. The individuals serving at the Shura Base are not mythical heroes; they are ordinary people performing extraordinary acts under the most challenging circumstances. This realization serves as a catalyst, urging us to ponder over what we, too, can endure or achieve when pushed beyond our perceived limits.

The question then becomes not if we could do exactly what they do, but rather what our own version of stepping out of our comfort zone looks like. For some, it might be volunteering for a cause that addresses a pressing issue, despite the discomfort it might bring. Others might find it in the pursuit of a dream or goal that seems daunting, requiring them to face fears of failure or judgment. Or perhaps it’s in the simple act of kindness and understanding toward someone from a completely different background, bridging gaps and building connections in small but significant ways.

The essence of pushing beyond our comfort zones lies in the willingness to confront the unknown, to face our fears, and to grow from the experiences that challenge us. The soldiers at Shura exemplify this principle in a context that few of us will ever directly encounter, but their courage and commitment can inspire us all to consider how we might move beyond our own boundaries, in whatever form that may take

This morning, over 120 members of the Teaneck/Bergenfield community commenced a three-day solidarity mission to Israel, in response to the harrowing months of war that have deeply affected our nation. This communal effort is rooted in a collective desire to offer support and stand shoulder-to-shoulder with those who have been directly impacted by these challenging times.

The opening of our mission was marked by the exceptionally moving words of Jen Airley. She shared the deeply personal story of her son, Binyamin, who tragically fell in Gaza several months ago. Her courage and strength in the face of such loss deeply resonated with us all, serving as a powerful testament to the human cost of conflict and the remarkable resilience of those who endure it.

As we immerse ourselves in the Israeli community, it is evident that the conventional five stages of grief—denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance, as introduced by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross—don’t fully encompass their collective experience. The unending nature of this war has led to a complex process of grieving, where individuals often find themselves navigating all five stages simultaneously.

However, in this complex landscape of grief, we observe an additional, profound stage: resilience. The resilience of the Jewish community in Israel adds a remarkable dimension to the grieving process, reflecting an enduring spirit and hope. This resilience, characterized by a collective determination to rebuild and move forward, highlights the incredible strength and will to persevere despite the ongoing challenges.

Witnessing this resilience at the beginning of our mission is profoundly inspiring. It paints a narrative of human endurance and adaptability, showcasing the capacity of the human spirit to not only withstand adversity but also to emerge stronger. The stories of courage, solidarity, and unwavering optimism that we encounter underscore the indomitable nature of the human will.

As we move forward with our mission over the next several days, we are prepared to witness the varied stages of grief that weave through the fabric of this nation’s experience. But we must also take note of this special endowment – the sixth stage of resilience, gifted to us by God Himself, as reflected in the words “ה’ עוז לעמו יתן” – “Hashem gives strength to His people.”