A wonderful piece Julie. I share in your joy for the returned, but my own natural pessimism cannot believe that we will not see something like October 7 (or worse) occur again, and again, unless or until fundamentalist Islam goes the way of the Christian Inquisitors.
I also grieve for those who did not survive October 7 or the perils of Gaza and the Hamas tunnels afterwards. The Arabs who call themselves Palestinians (whatever that means) will forever have blood on their hands that nothing can ever wash off. I'm not Jewish, or even religious, but if there is a God, I hope he sends those responsible to the hell they deserve. Some things can never be forgotten.
In light of the continued fighting and the way Hamas seem to enjoy their sadistic games, it feels like a miracle that any of the hostages are home at all. I’m grateful for that. And in spite of my own atheism (probably agnosticism now) I can’t help but feel that all the prayers and rituals practiced by everyone vibing hard for the hostages over the past two years did make a difference. I don’t know. I’m just so relieved some made it back. Not enough, but some. It hurts to know more Israeli soldiers have fallen since the ceasefire but that just makes the hostages release even more of a miracle. ❤️
A wonderful piece Julie. I share in your joy for the returned, but my own natural pessimism cannot believe that we will not see something like October 7 (or worse) occur again, and again, unless or until fundamentalist Islam goes the way of the Christian Inquisitors.
I also grieve for those who did not survive October 7 or the perils of Gaza and the Hamas tunnels afterwards. The Arabs who call themselves Palestinians (whatever that means) will forever have blood on their hands that nothing can ever wash off. I'm not Jewish, or even religious, but if there is a God, I hope he sends those responsible to the hell they deserve. Some things can never be forgotten.
Thank you David. I share in your pessimism.
You are a beacon of light Julie, keep shining in the darkness 🙌
Thank you Peter, I'm blushing.
Lovely writing.
A beautiful tribute to these survivors.
In light of the continued fighting and the way Hamas seem to enjoy their sadistic games, it feels like a miracle that any of the hostages are home at all. I’m grateful for that. And in spite of my own atheism (probably agnosticism now) I can’t help but feel that all the prayers and rituals practiced by everyone vibing hard for the hostages over the past two years did make a difference. I don’t know. I’m just so relieved some made it back. Not enough, but some. It hurts to know more Israeli soldiers have fallen since the ceasefire but that just makes the hostages release even more of a miracle. ❤️
So true Ivana. It definitely hurts to think of the families who lost sons after the “ceasefire”.
Powerful, moving stuff, Julie. You nearly had ME in tears.
Beautiful closing sentence, Julie.
Such a good piece, Julie. Lots of understanding, and feeling.
Beautifully written, your parents would be proud .
A wonderful piece
Julie, thank you so much for this beautiful piece. The return of the hostages was a truly joyous moment after a horrific two years.