"When G-d returns the Captivity of Zion, we will be like dreamers. Then our mouths will be filled with laughter, and out tongues with joyous song..." Psalm 126 (The Living NACH Translation)
King David wrote those words more than 3,000 years ago, but we recite them even today when we eat a meal. Eating, one of our most basic needs. We do it because our body can't function without it. But even in the most mundane tasks of our day to day life, Jerusalem is on our mind.
As we celebrate the 55th anniversary of a unified Jerusalem today, we marvel how much the city has become a city of joyous song for all. Peter Abelow and I have the privilege of serving as tour guides for individuals, families and groups. We introduce people to the magic of Jerusalem from all walks of life: Jews, Christians, Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims an devout atheists. On a regular basis, we enjoy the privilege of watching the citizens and tourists alike fulfill the prophet' Zechariah's prediction. "This is what the G-d of Hosts said: The time will yet come when old men and women will sit in the streets of Jerusalem, each with his cane in hand because of his advanced years. And the city's streets will be filled wit boys and girls, they will be playing in her streets (Zehcariah 8:5 - The Living NACH Translation).
Today, may the streets of Jerusalem be filled with laughter and joy, old and young enjoying smiling and laughing as they wave their flags with pride as we witness the 55th anniversary of a 3,000-year-old dream
From all of us at Israel is Beautiful, Happy Jerusalem Day 5782 (2022)
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