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Am I Really Living in a Giant Succah?

Life in Israel sometimes feels like living in a giant succah. I love being here, unequivocally, but there are a few things I have learned along the way which have increased my happiness and contentment in a society within which change,confusion and existential threats can suddenly impact my life.These are precisely the same attitudes and behaviours which can help you develop peace of mind and contentment during this unprecedented period of pandemic, social upheaval and tumultuous change. I am happy to share with you the lessons I have learned.

Faith in a positive future and fortitude, the personal strength to hold on to my values and beliefs has been challenged by the assault of radical groups linking their political causes to Human Rights. It’s difficult to be fair but to maintain clarity when positive language is used in negative ways to both ridicule and denigrate most of the values such as honesty and decency which I was taught through my Heritage.

Israelis, for the most part, have learned to do just that. They rely on their unique Torah values to stand up to the escalating and unjust anti Semitism of the world at large. I no longer try to convince others of the rightness of my position but rather choose to spend my time with those who make me feel positive and appreciated. I have stopped being an activist to be a doer and volunteer creating the changes I want to see happen.

In addition, Israelis, “The StartUp Nation”, joyfully celebrate living for seven days in a succah, a fragile structure representing the Bamidbar experience of our Ancestors. This seems quaint in a progressive world and unenlightened in a society which is technologically advanced, and capable of controlling its own destiny. Building a succah is a cherished reminder that we really have only One Defender, One Protector on whom we can rely and we know that, somehow, the promises made to our Ancestors are being fulfilled in front of our eyes.

Even if the situation on our borders seems hopeless, or we unexpectedly experience a rocket attack or car ramming, individual Israelis recognize the continuing miracle of existence. That’s why I take the day off to go to the beach or do something pleasurable before trying once more to solve a problem. Life itself is to be appreciated and lived in the moment.

That is probably why Israelis have a favorite phrase, “hakol beseder”, which pops out in any situation where challenges seem daunting and success, just one of the possible outcomes. It is always said in a modulated voice, accompanied by a smile and offer to assist

Israelis are noted for their positive outlook and resilience. I, too, have developed that attitude. If the day is sunny and pleasant I might decide that I want to go to Tel Aviv or Jerusalem and have an adventure. Whatever projects I have can wait for another day. Today might not come around again for some time so I will enjoy it now and catch up later.

When tragedy does happen and a life is lost, Israelis react like family and mourn collectively. They come together from all walks of life and all places in Israel. Community support is rallied for the family and loved ones. We do not wait for the government or an anonymous relief organization to take charge. In the first round of Covid, I received several phone calls from groups within Modiin,offering help with grocery shopping etc. and Seniors were provided with a 24 hour helpline for any kind of assistance they might require. It wasn’t perfect but I felt cared for and knew where to get support. That’s something we can all do for each other.

Each life counts. Our young people learn that they are part of something bigger than their own wishes and wants.They learn to work together as a team; the objective must be achieved even if personal feelings are hurt or an unpleasant chore has to be done. I learned this lesson through having a soldier son. The army makes the decisions and I support as best I can, all the while hoping that my son will be alright. I am truly connected to my People who have shared this experience with sleepless nights and endless prayers, a link in the chain of Tradition and History.

So yes, I am living in a giant succah. I cannot control everything that comes along. The walls will not withstand the storm but a succah can be rebuilt or replaced. Each night we invite one of our Ancestors into the Succah and we celebrate the deeds and special characteristics of that Ancestor. What a marvellous way to feel connected and to appreciate our own part on the story of our People. My life has meaning; I am part of the ongoing story of the Jewish Nation; and I rely only on Our Creator to provide protection and shelter from the storms.