Another week flew by on the Jerusalem streets.
And as usual, with highs and lows, and unexpected encounters and happenings.
Today sharing photos you probably did not see, or at least I never saw reported.
The week began with perfect spring-like weather.
The YMCA Jerusalem stone tower against the blue sky with wisps of clouds and blossoms on the trees – the beautiful Jerusalem colors that inspired The Real Jerusalem Streets and logo.
At the YMCA at night, Ramadan is celebrated. The month-long Muslim holiday ends March 30th with Eid el Fitr.
I met across the street from the YMCA at the King David Hotel with Wanda Peretz to hear about her new book “The Ceiling.”
The Jerusalem Theater was lit with special lights on Tuesday night for the Mayor’s Volunteer Awards.
I went as a long-time volunteer helping lone soldiers and supporter of The Michael Levin Base.
Pleased to see that another non-profit I did volunteer work for was also recognized. Tenufa Bakehila, helps low-income families improve their homes and lives.
I remember one woman who exclaimed, “I feel like a bride!” seeing her new “after” kitchen.
As at every program, the murdered and hostages since October 7 were remembered.
By the security entrance of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, MFA, are more of those faces and a “Bring them home” banner.
Inside, the briefing in English by the MFA spokesperson became timely as new missile attacks and fighting started again, with sirens in Jerusalem, as well as huge sections of Israel.
What I really wanted to know was – who were the government limousines lined up waiting to transport?
It has been a while since I was inside the MFA and do not remember the fish pond. It was a good spot to stop and talk with a group of US Mayors touring Israel before they went inside.
The real streets include prolonged protest sites which I usually avoid and leave for others. However, this one has been set up near the Knesset against the government from before the war.
Walking from the MFA calming fish pond it was on my way home. Everyone I know wants the war to end and all the hostages returned. The question is how to accomplish it.
The week ended with cold wet weather. But even with the grey sky, there was bright color if you look.
The finish line for the International Jerusalem Marathon, to be held on April 4, 2025, was up over this Jerusalem street. Tens of thousands are expected to run in the various races.
And the spring flowers are again popping up from the old stones.
Jerusalem, day and night, cold and hot, even under missile fire – Israel is rated the 8th happiest country.
Am Yisrael Chai – See you Next Year in Jerusalem!
