Autumn means beautiful photos of fall foliage
from the northeastern United States.
There is nothing like that in Jerusalem, Israel.
This year I found one tree with some fall colors.
But, as those US multi-colored leaves fall to leave bare limbs,
Jerusalem palm trees fill with ripe dates,
and fall flowers burst out over the sidewalks
Flower beds are being planted,
and a new flower bed has been added outside
of Beit Hanasi, the Israeli President’s residence.
The fall flowers of Yemin Moshe are always a favorite.
With a sandstorm this week,
the Montefiore Windmill was turning briskly,
but hard to see against the white sky.
Some streets have been too quiet since tourism has been down.
The German Colony is sponsoring special events
every Monday evening in November and December.
Australian tourists were enjoying a free day to see sights.
Not far away a female tour guide was injured in a terror attack.
A friend was out walking a grandchild
with her whistle handy in case of trouble.
People are more wary and careful going about their business.
But oh, those cats,
While I pass women walking with pepper spray
in hand ready for whatever might happen,
Jerusalem cats have a special chutzpah.
Those cats hold their ground no matter what.
And in the fall,
Jerusalem cloud formations,
with the blue and white sky at sunset.
Ten measures of beauty descended to the world;
nine were taken by Jerusalem.
Talmud Kiddushin 49b
Autumn in Jerusalem,
the seasons change.
Days are shorter and cooler,
the dark hours of night longer.
The cycle of life goes on.
