Israel is a land of multiple religions in a country surrounded by enemies on all borders. The Jewish people have occupied the land for generations. A land of sand, mountain terrain, minimal water and a warm climate is home to a truly brave peoples. In this coastal country one finds great strives made by a couragous people converting desert regions into wonderful crop producing areas.
The enemy states surrounding Israel make the country ripe for terrorism and threats of war. Jewish families send their young men and women to mandatory military service. The males are conscripted for 3 years and the women for 2 years. It is with trepidation and pride that these young men and women serve their country. The citizens of Israel have vowed to never let the autrocities of the holocaust happen to them again. I this land marked by hostile borders a vigilance of enemies is maintained at all times.
The stretch of beaches outlining the Mediterranean Sea is in itself a beautiful site. Proud people enjoy the warm sun splashed beach areas. The roman ruins of Cesarea contrasting the blue waters of King Herods palace are spectacular to behold. The land draws one into its being at first site. In the midst of the beauty a proud people carrying on with their lives in pleasant manners. Guides willing tell a story of the land, the many struggles from Roman rulers to present day terror threats and political misunderstandings with the United States. Allies and yet at odds with world policies. Israel is a place where world political struggles are carried out in social media broadcasts on a daily basis.
Following my first experience in Israel I was compelled to question why so many political and military conflicts were always in the news. I have since discovered that partly because of many jealous attitudes and the strength of the Jewish peoples bravery are the answers. One must recognize that a people who are forced to defend their nation on a daily basis are strengthed in their resolve to maintain military preparedness.
In the Palistenian area of Bethlehem most Christians have been forced out over time. The Holy sites are maintained for Christian tourists in hostile territories. This in and of itself is a sad state of affairs. Throught Israel ancient holy sites are for the most part respected by all Jewish, Christian and Muslim people. The Israel Military keeps a watchful eye to protect their land, their rights as a nation and the ancient religious ruins. In a land where many religious were born and where a conflict might begin at any given moment there is a sense of calm. The brave men and women of Israel stand their ground to protect the ancient sites as well as their prideful nation and the many visitors.
If being vigiliant by posting armed military at various checkpoints, patrolling the skies over the country are seen as hawkish exploits then we are all very wrong. The brave citizens of Israel thrive because of a common bond that was welded when world exploits attempted to eradicate their race. The bravery of these people to stand against insurgents who would see them eliminated is above comparison.
The bravest of the brave are world citizens who protect their rights, religious beliefs, antiquities and traditions from enemies who would do them harm. There is no need to look further for bravery than in the wonder filled land of Israel.
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