“Why do they
think I made Aliyah?”
Not only did
the form want my birthdate; it also requested the date I’d immigrated to
Israel. My friend, who was helping with me the countless documents I needed for
my children’s education, had a ready answer.
“More than
half the Israelis weren’t born here.”
That statistic was true in 1986 and it’s probably just as true today. So true, that the Knesset has declared a special Aliyah Day today recognizing the contributions of its many immigrants. I’m proud to be among them. There is not a day in the past thirty-five years that I don’t thank the Almighty for the privilege of being here. Still, Aliyah wasn’t always easy and there were a number of angels to whom I owe a big thanks.
It was Yossi
who first extended kindness to me. As the manager of the supermarket on the
Absorption Center where we first lived, he dealt with new immigrants
constantly. Translating labels, explaining products, and even calling to his
wife to have her clarify how to use a specific food were just a sample of how
he was supportive.
Next was the
National Service girl. Once a new immigrant herself, she understood our
children so well. Already an acclimated teenager, her homework help and
emotional support were priceless. Then there was my ulpan instructor. Along
with Hebrew she taught social norms AND was often a sympathetic shoulder to cry
on, going far beyond her job description.
Sadly, not
all of the absorption center staff was so sympathetic, but we managed despite their
lack of help. After eight months we found a home in a friendly, little village
where we met many more Aliyah angels. The neighbors who sang and danced in
greeting when my husband was first called to the Torah. The grocery store owner
who not only sold food but helped us with our Hebrew. The school principal and
teachers who made sure to have someone who could translate for us during
conferences. The doctor and nurse who spoke to us in easy Hebrew. The Israelis
who invited us into their homes and encouraged their children to befriend ours.
And, of course, the Americans who had come before us who understood, ever more
than we did, what we needed. Once again, not everything was positive, but we tried
to concentrate on what was good.
Through the
years I have seen many make Aliyah. Some people come after a pilot trip and
know exactly where they want to live, work, and educate their children. Some come
with only a vague dream. Some are fleeing from their past. Some are running to
their future. Some stay and make good lives. Some never acclimate. And some
return to where they came from.
Although I
have never done a study, I believe the secret to a successful Aliyah is to look
for the Aliyah angels. Once you find them, appreciate them, thank them, grow
from them, and pass it forward. Israel is a beautiful country. It’s our
country. Come and join us. We’re here to help you.
No comments:
Post a Comment