There is a spot in Jerusalem, Israel,
with so majestic a view
that tourists from around the world
are brought by the busload to appreciate the sight.
The Sherover Promenade which leads to the Haas Promenade
has a view of the Old City of ancient Jerusalem surrounded by its walls
and all the neighborhoods adjacent to it.
Parties, reunions, weddings and more,
are held along these promenades, called the Tayelet.
On Friday, January 13, 2017,
they were almost deserted.
The lawns by the road were now lined with metal barriers.
Ironically, as I approached,
a large white truck was pulling away.
It was on Sunday, just a few days before,
that a terrorist had rammed his large white truck into a crowd
of young Israeli soldiers on an outing to appreciate the view.
Four were killed and more injured.
On Friday afternoon,
local residents gathered at the spot,
to mourn, to remember.
and to light a candle
at the make-shift memorials.
They also sang songs of peace and hope,
and melodies to welcome the Shabbat.
While community members joined together
to take back their valued space,
Artists4Israel worked on a mural.
“There should be peace within your borders,
serenity in your palaces.”
What else is there to say?
AMEN.
