Parallel Lives

Part of MASA’s Building Future Leaders Seminar, I was able to participate in the Parallel Lives Program that aims to bring Israeli soldiers and Diaspora peers together to dialogue.  The Seminar is three weekends and the soldiers participate in all of the workshops in order to bring the Israeli perspective.  All of the soldiers except for one were forced to miss the last weekend because of Israel’s retaliation in Gaza.  The following is what one of the soldiers wrote about participating in the program.

“My decision to join Parallel Lives was probably made at the most appropriate time.  This period has high potential as a turning point in my military service.  As a commander I had to deal many times with my soldiers’ questions including ‘why am I here?’, meaning why should I carry on my shoulders the defense of my homeland?  Why me and not someone else?  Is it worthwhile, because someone else can do it instead of me, isn’t that so?

I had to clarify these answers first for myself, before I stared my officer training and made the decision to take responsibility as commander, trainer and educator, responsible for the welfare of 25 soldiers.  There are no absolute answers to these questions and you being to wonder about it many times, especially when the service becomes harder and harder.

Now I move on to my personal experience while meeting with you, Jews from all over, my dear brothers.  I see your love for this country; see your honest care and ongoing interest in our doing.  I witnessed your enormous will to be part of the Israeli existence and your efforts to approach Jewish people from around the globe and connect them to their Jewish roots.  I witness that and become stronger, witness that and get excited and inspired.  I witness that and understand that on my shoulders lay the defense and contribution to preserving and preparing the platform for the fruits of your actions and in addition, eventually, to your Aliya to Israel to take part in ensuring the sustainability of the state of Israel.

It may look obvious to all of us, but it isn’t.  Not at all.  The road is still long and anything can happen.  For all of that, thank you.”

-Rotem Mirzae
IDF Commander
Age 23