Wake Up Calls

“You that make mention of the L-RD, be not silent.” – Isaiah 62:6

Twenty years ago, my views shifted, fellow environmental minded people, human rights activists, who were all for saving the earth, turned out to be anti-Israel activists as well. Thus, the dividing line was drawn, right around the time I was seeking to learn more about my Judaism as well.

These Leftists were steeped in the theories of colonialism and anti-imperialism. Yes, this was twenty years ago. They read the works of the leading authorities on these political positions; although, I will not name the authors, lest I give them any publicity. May their works be exposed for what they are – ideas that foment revolution.

Ten years ago, I was called to task, when an extreme Leftist anti-Israel OpEd was written in a local university paper. Since I was attending that university, I felt obligated to write a letter-to-the editor. My writing, critiquing the claim of genocide by Israel on the Palestinians, was printed; and, I was asked to join the OpEd department for the university newspaper. I wrote OpEds for three semesters, often in support of Israel and a godly perspective on the world.

In the summer of 2020, on a particular Friday afternoon, I began to prepare for Shabbat. The next night, motzei Shabbos, when I went online for the first time since 2 p.m. the previous day, I learned that the national guard was called out in over a dozen cities, as flames engulfed neighborhoods.

This led to my research on Wokism, the social justice movement and identity-Marxism. I wrote, based upon my findings, to bring awareness to others about these pernicious efforts of the Left to undermine society. The pro-Palestinian cause is one of the many causes that are supported by that movement.

On October seventh, at the synagogue that I attend, I heard the first reports of the tragedies that ensued that day. It was around 10 a.m., while I happened to be standing outside the entrance getting some air. As the day progressed, it was clear that this would be a day that changed everything for myself, Jews around the world, and Israel itself. Yes, it was and still is a wake-up call for all of us.