Regarding the war in Israel and Gaza

I have come to the conclusion that getting angry and digging in my heels about my opinion does no good. As much as I (mistakenly) think that I am absolutely right and everyone else is wrong, presenting things in such a manner accomplishes nothing.

Surveys tell us that a significant percentage of world Jewry (including here in the United States) stands against Israel's continued military actions in Gaza, and are horrified by the results of famine and death. Despite Hamas having caused such trauma to Israel and the world Jewish community, the posture of the Israeli government, and its official positions, seem out of proportion, and unlikely to lead to peace.

Yet, to be upset and traumatized leads to overwhelming depression and a sense of isolation.

Something that has helped me, as of late, is reminding myself that a lot of Jews and a lot of organizations are taking stances that are, to some degree, in line with my way of thinking and make me feel as if I am not alone in my opinions.

I have been reading about the activities and positions that such organizations take, including but not limited to Friends of Roots, Combatants for Peace, Standing Together, T'ruah, J Street and the New Israel Fund. Learning about and monitoring the activities of these organizations, and many others, gives me hope and comfort of knowing that there is an active voice that could help in this dire hour. And so, I have donated to these organizations and lent them my support.

I am sure that a couple of you will agree with me, and I am also quite sure that many of you will not. I am also sure that the majority of you are troubled and confused and would just like to be able to talk about all this. Accessing these organization's websites and looking at their statements of purpose and recent activities might bring you a sense of hope, as it did for me.

At this time, it feels difficult to find peace as a Jew. What are we to make of what is happening in Israel, or here at home? For us, as Jews, what does it all mean? It certainly never has, nor will it ever mean that we are offered an easy way to get through the moment at hand. Our faith and beliefs demand of us that we constantly question and strive for a better world.

This is how I do it, and perhaps it will be helpful to you, as well.

Louis Gitlin

Providence, R.I.