‘Today my cup is overflowing’

I am back in Israel for the fourth time in two years.

The first was in May 2023 when Sandra and I spent a month which included walking the Yam l’Yam trail (Mediterranean to Kinneret) and attending the Biennial World Union of Progressive Judaism Conference. Israel was in the midst of the judicial reform controversy. We joined the many Israelis on Kaplan Street, protesting what we saw as the excesses of a mischievous government.

The second trip was perhaps the most significant, but also the most difficult. I arrived in Israel soon after October 7, intent on volunteering in any way possible that would help the state. It was early. The country was in shock, and grieving for the many lost. The army had yet to enter Gaza, and rockets were a constant, forcing us into bomb shelters two or three times a day. I volunteered on an army base with Sar-El, with a small group of 23 others from all over the world. The work we did was urgent, as the army prepared to enter Gaza. We often worked late into the night packing medical supplies or placing ceramic pieces in flak jackets.

It was an emotional experience. I was with Avichai Brodetz whose wife and three children were kidnapped to Gaza, when he began his protest outside the Kirya which developed into the weekly protests for the release of the hostages. I visited the survivors from Kfar Aza and attended the funerals of those that had been murdered. It was the worst of times, spent in the company of some of the best people. A time I will never forget.

The third time was to bring a group of 15 brave Progressive Jews for the first ever solidarity mission of the Union for Progressive Judaism. Together we explored Israel, travelling south on the now requisite “Memorial Trail”; hearing from geopolitical experts and volunteering. It was a difficult time: Israel was still grieving, the war was ongoing, and there was much despair.