Making a simcha in times of war

One of the most challenging aspects of life during an ongoing war is dealing with conflicting emotions that may arise. On the one hand, we are all faced with the reality of an immense tragedy, either on a personal level, or collectively as a nation. We have to deal with a large variety of emotions, such as fear, grief, anger, guilt and so much more. On the other hand, many normal aspects of life cannot and should not be ignored. Couples get married, babies are born and children come of age. Life, like a fast-flowing river, can’t be stopped and must move forward, whether we feel prepared for that or not.

Even so, it might seem inappropriate to celebrate while so many of our brothers and sisters are going through such difficult times, including families who have lost a loved one, soldiers and civilians who’ve been injured and hostages who are still being held in deplorable conditions. While these feelings are understandable and commendable, there are a number of reasons why we shouldn’t give up on joyous events during the turmoil of war.

Keeping the morale high

When our enemies attacked us, they sought to break our spirit and demoralize us. One way of fighting back is by keeping our heads high, and by strengthening feelings of hope, faith, optimism and unity. It is critical to raise the morale, because that is what gives the soldiers on the front the strength to keep fighting.

Of course, we shouldn’t move on with our lives as though nothing has changed. That would be both insensitive and show a lack of gratitude. It’s appropriate to modify the event, whether by limiting the number of participants and turning it into a more private simcha, or by publicly acknowledging the situation and expressing thanks for the fact that the simcha is able to take place at all.

Our way of contributing

Here, at Yad Ezra V’Shulamit, we too are doing our part ensuring that special milestones are still marked and celebrated, even in situations where normal life has been profoundly disrupted by the war.
We have recently had the honor of hosting a Bat Mitzvah party for evacuees at a hotel in Israel. The Bat Mitzvah girls enjoyed a memorable celebration, and each evacuee received thoughtful gifts: a beautiful Siddur and a Shabbat candles kit complete with candlesticks, blessing, and candles.

To add to the festivities, we provided delicious refreshments and a talented party entertainer. We tried our best to create an atmosphere where each girl would feel pampered and cherished throughout the event. It was a joy to see the girls celebrate with their families, surrounded with laughter and love.

Your support and generosity truly make a difference in the lives of these evacuees. Let’s continue spreading joy and kindness wherever we go!