It started with Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Memorial Day), followed by Yom HaZikaron (Memorial Day), honoring those who lost their lives during the 7 “official” wars Israel experienced during its short, 60-year existence and those who were victims of terrorism.

Literally, the entire country observes.

They stand at attention and bow their heads when the sirens go off throughout the country.

Everything comes to a standstill.

People stop driving.

They get out of their cars in the middle of the street.

They stop wherever they are walking. They turn off tvs, and they give their full attention to the solemn moments of remembrance.

Families and friends go to services held at all the cemeteries in the country.

Taking Holiday Seriously

I know someone who attended three memorial services that day, two for family members and one for an Army buddy.

The following day was Yom HaAtzmaut (Independence Day), commemorating the 60th anniversary of the State of Israel.

This day was one of celebration.

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Like our 4th of July, there were fireworks, parades and entertainment, barbeques and a myriad of events.

A Sure Sign

Streets were cordoned off.

Every street corner had some kind of festivity.

Practically every car on the road had an Israeli flag blowing in the wind. People also had flags hanging from every window and balcony of their apartments and homes.

I had five flags flying (three little ones on poles, two gigantic ones hanging from the wrought iron grille work under my windows).

A Happy Spectator

I sat in my apartment with my windows wide open (there are no screens; the glass and shutters that are on tracks were pushed to the side), observing views of the park next door and the apartments around me with their flags flapping in the breeze.

With the fresh air, blue sky, and the sight of the Israeli flag everywhere I looked, I could not help but get into the spirit and the excitement of the day.

Unfortunately, not everyone could celebrate the occasion.

Rockets from Hamas in Gaza rained down upon several Israeli towns and on kibbutzim, killing civilian adults and maiming some children.

Terrorists Never Let up

Then while President Bush met with Israeli leaders in Jerusalem to discuss peace with the Palestinians, the Palestinian rockets reached all the way to Ashkelon, making a direct hit on the shopping mall there, severely injuring approximately 40 people, mostly women and children.

Living in Israel you have to take the bitter with the sweet.

The bitter is very bitter, and the sweet very sweet. There is almost no in-between.

L'hitraot, Shachar