Well, it’s time.  My wife called me this afternoon after she picked up our three children from school.  My middle son had to be rushed into his class today.  They were all playing in the (enclosed) playground outside of his classroom when some suspicious Arabs were spotted in the nearby sand dunes.  The teacher, always alert, rightfully and expeditiously  escorted the children into the classroom and locked the door (and alerted the authorities).

How did we find out you ask?  No, the teacher didn’t tell us:  My son did.  At four and a half years old he has already experienced two wars and now Arab terror threats.  Needless to say, my wife and I are preparing, carefully, how we will explain the current situation to my children at breakfast tomorrow morning.

It’s nighttime here in the Holy Land and all three are tucked away in their beds, sleeping peacefully.  They have all recited the bedtime “Shema” and are hopefully dreaming about basketballs, ice cream and cartoons.  They will be shielded and protected from the horrors of their surroundings, at least until breakfast.

Why do we live here?  We have to.  We live here because it’s the only place in this world where the Jews have a homeland.  A strong, vibrant Israel means security and prosperity for Jews all over the world.

My children are actually thriving here.  They play in the park, go to school, have friends, cousins, grandparents and so much love from me and my amazing wife.  Their shining, happy faces are reason enough for me to continue to live here.