By Cantorial Soloist Lindi Rivers

I write to you from Eretz Yisrael, where I have the privilege of participating in the American Conference of Cantors-Guild of Temple Musicians Mission. We are only 24 hours in and already my senses and emotions are full with information to process.

Our first evening began with a tour of the Anu Museum of the Jewish people. Inside this beautifully curated three-story space was everything from video stories offered by a vast array of the world’s Jews to detailed models of historic synagogues, to a Jewish comedy exhibit complete with a life-size scale “Seinfeld” set. Then there is the “October 7th” exhibit.

Following a rooftop dinner, we were fortunate to have the mission framed by Jessica Steinberg, The Times of Israel Culture and Lifestyle editor, moderating a discussion with political correspondents, Tal Schneider and Haviv Rettig Gur, senior analyst for The Times of Israel. They outlined some of the issues and concerns at hand including the discrepancy between the political versus moral perspectives on the success and expectations of the war and the brewing risk of a major, devastating war in the north.

They also talked about the phenomenal spirit and helping instinct of Jewish and non-Jewish civilians who leapt into action on Oct. 7 and ran to rescue people before, during and after they became aware that the army was not showing up in strength.

There is tremendous trauma in the country. We toured the “Healing Space”, a treatment center on private wooded land which was created after Oct. 7 by a group of psychotherapists, initially to treat Nova Festival survivors. It now also treats police, soldiers and families of victims. The alternative therapies used are being recognized and supported by the government as mainstream effective methods for reducing stress and helping in the journey of healing this new kind of trauma that Israelis are experiencing.

The will to continue living fully is palpable in this country, even in the face of devastation and grave uncertainty. To express the inexplicable, the creative arts are proving an important vehicle. Many songs and poems have been written, and dances created.  Music is healing, and we 55 cantors, cantorial soloists and temple musicians are lending our voices as well. It has already felt transformational. Everyone we meet is so appreciative of people coming to Israel, of knowing they are not alone.

There is still much ahead, and I know it will take time to process when I return.  In the meantime, I take comfort in the constancy and vastness of the sea, the beautiful, warm Mediterranean. It seems that young, energetic Israelis feel the same, playing volleyball along the beach at 7 am.

I am grateful to be here and to represent Holy Blossom Temple and our community. I feel you all with me.

Shabbat Shalom.

Am Yisrael Chai