How are you?

That question, asked by caring friends and relatives across the ocean, is truly appreciated. Yet, I'm finding it a complicated one to answer. Except for exhaustion- it’s challenging to get a good night’s sleep when sirens keep me running for the shelter- I’m physically fine. Emotionally, well, I’ve been on a roller coaster the last four days. Here are some of my feelings: Awe we destroyed as much of Iran’s nuclear power that we did. Sorrow some precious souls have been lost and many, many injured by Iran. Concern for all the children without programs, friends and strangers stranded outside Israel. Regret that, despite the roads being open, I don’t feel comfortable traveling to see my children and grandchildren who do not live in Shilo. Disappointment at canceled plans. Worry about what will happen to the Israeli economy since everything- except for the essential services- are shut down. Appreciation to the supermarket workers, gas station attendants, and all the other essential employees. Along with them are the volunteers doing their best to improve our quality of life during this shutdown. Anxiety about upcoming attacks. Even though the rockets are not aimed at my tiny village, I hear plenty of booms which means Israel is intercepting the missiles. Falling shrapnel can be deadly, so I listen to the civil guard’s instructions. And of course, I’m distressed at what could be happening in the big population centers. Thankfulness I have a shelter in my house and a husband to share it with. Stressed with one son returning to Gaza leaving his wife and children to run to the shelter by themselves, a son-in-law in reserve duty means my daughter has to deal with her children and home front alone, another son on standby for reserve duty, a third on call as a volunteer fireman. My middle daughter works in ER in a centrally located hospital, and I can’t imagine what she sees there. All of them, all of the country, are dealing with children at home, challenges to their livelihoods, and all the above emotions. However, underlying all of this is the knowledge that we’re in HaShem’s hands. He has kept the Jewish people alive all these years and is not about to stop doing so now. The end will be good. I pray it won’t be too painful to get there.