The Story
An Israeli’s Nostalgia Amidst Crisis
As Israel faces pressing challenges, there’s a sense of nostalgia when recalling the COVID-19 pandemic years. Many Israelis find themselves reminiscing about past difficulties through the lens of the present challenges, considering them relatively more manageable.
Experience of Families at Home
During the High Holy Days of 2020, families were prevented from gathering due to the COVID-19 pandemic’s health precautions, perceived as a simple inconvenience compared to a war that risked drafting family members into danger zones.
Why It Matters
A Nation’s Resilience
Israelis have historically faced obstacles with a spirit of endurance and unity. Shifting focus from plagues to peacetime achievements is pivotal for national morale, and the ability to view past difficulties fondly underscores Israel’s indomitable spirit.
Community and Family Bonds
While the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated social distancing, today’s conflicts require an opposite form of sacrifice — serving in combat roles. Families now view previous years’ precautions for safety, despite their challenges, in a more favorable light compared to the fears of current military realities.
Nostalgia and Optimism
The Charm of Retrospective Positives
In reflection, certain adjustments necessary during COVID-19, like remote working innovations and altered prayer routines, uncovered unexpectedly beneficial transformations welcomed even today in Israeli societal culture.
Adapting to Energetic Realities
Many citizens, embodying Israel’s gritty tenacity, still manage to view the challenges amidst warfare with optimism. It’s this resilience and proactive outlook that provides hope for a positive geopolitical outcome with potential structural benefits once current threats are pacified.
Family Values and Connection
Parents and children alike find solace by embracing familial love and small joys, even when faced with looming threats. Israelis exhibit optimism even in their children’s compliance with duty, symbolized by simple yet significant joys like “lemon squares” during reserve duty tribulations.
This story was first published on jpost.com.