The next week, on Yom HaZikaron (Memorial Day), we solemnly remembered people who have been killed while serving their country, and we celebrated the country of Israel on Yom Ha'Atzmaut (Independence Day). The contrast between these two days is black and white. Yom HaZikaron is a difficult, mournful day where people take the time to think about people they have lost. Because this country is so small, everyone knows someone or knows of someone who lost his or her life in the military. It felt very different from Memorial Day in the U.S., where people mainly plan a barbecue or a shopping trip to take advantage of the sales. I had the chance to attend a memorial serivce that was very sad but beautiful.
The very next day, May 9th, was Independence Day. It felt a lot like the 4th of July in the U.S. Yom Ha'Atzmaut is a huge celebration with parades all over and people dressed proudly in blue and white, waving flags and dancing to music. Some people are uncomfortable with the fact that Memorial Day and Independence Day follow each other immediately, but most people believe that it is important to remember how precious it is to have their own country and at the same time remember the sacrifices that have made it possible. I felt so fortunate to be able to witness both the intense sadness and the joyous celebration. It made me feel very connected to this country and its people. It felt personal to me, because I am Jewish and Israel is the Jewish homeland.
In terms of other news, I have four days left at my internship. I will be very sad to leave, because I really love working with the people here. But who knows, I might be back!
