On October 9, my local JCC held a gathering to pray and show support for Israel. When I got there, I was overwhelmed with how many people came to show their love and support. There were so many people trying to get into this event that they had to push the service back an hour so everyone would have time to get in due to all the security measures taken to make sure everyone was safe.

Throughout the service, Rabbis and speakers in my community came up and talked about what was going on in Israel and how to help; all of them, at one point in their speeches, spoke about how the Jewish people are strong and how we will get through this together. Listening to these speeches made me feel proud to be Jewish and know that no matter what gets thrown at us, we will get back up and stand firm together, even if we are thousands of miles away. 

Sitting alongside friends Zoe Miller and Reese Schibel, Reese's thoughts on the gathering were, “The event to me was not just a matter of showing up, it was this idea that with everyone there we were able to show our undying love and support for Israel not only the country but its people. Being surrounded by friends, family, and even people I didn't know standing together with a common idea was something VERY inspirational.” Zoe's thoughts on the event meant a lot to everyone, knowing they were not alone in this horrible time for the Jewish people. 

Toward the end of the service, everyone sang Hatikvah, waving the lit candles we were given. In that moment of everyone singing, I realized we would get through these hard times together. Seeing everyone singing along, hugging, and leaning on each other was so powerful, knowing everyone there is here for each other and wants peace for everyone. Hatikvah means hope, and I truly believe after seeing all the love and support everyone had, Israel is going to make it through this horrible event even stronger.

Before attending this event, I was worried we, the Jewish people, wouldn’t be able to fight through this horrible event, but after seeing all the love and support of everyone in my community, I know we will get through this all together.