On a very tense day here in Israel, just wanted to share a beautiful moment I just experienced. I was at my brother’s house in Judea, what the world would disingenuously call the West Bank. We had a huge BBQ and a celebration of my mom’s birthday. Happy birthday, mom! Anyway, we were driving home and as we approached the checkpoint, I did what I always do. I rolled down my window, thanked the soldier standing there and made a comment to brighten their day a little. Usually I make a joke or give them a donut or something, but this time, I turned to the Ethiopian female soldier and with a smile on my face, I asked her, “So did you vote yet?” She retuned the smile and to my surprise, said no. I asked her why she hadn’t voted! Her answer? “Hakol Bidey Shamayim”, “It’s all in the hands of God.” I loved that this visibly secular woman replied like that, but I pushed back and said, “Ok, but Ein Somchin Al Hanes”, “We don’t depend on miracles.” Meaning, it’s nice that you have faith in God, but we also have to do our part and vote. I didn’t have to explain myself. She immediately replied “That’s true. You’re right. Ok, I’ll vote.” The entire exchange took about 12 seconds but it reminded me how special it is to live in this country. Driving with my family in an ancient land, encountering an Ethiopian soldier whose family likely sacrificed a lot to be here and who is now protecting me, engaging her in conversation about Jewish theology, and changing a stranger’s mind about her role in building the future of the Jewish state and the Jewish people. I replied and may or may not weighed in on who she should vote for. 😁 We laughed and I continued on my way. I love my country. I love my people! We are going to be ok. No matter what, somehow, everything will be ok. (Image generated by AI.)