At the Summer Fair left to right: Merle Guttmann, ESRA Honorary Life President, Ambassador Matthew Gould, Baruch Tanaman, ESRA Vice-chair, Brenda Katten, ESRA Chairperson

Enjoying today towards a better tomorrow

On leafing through this superb ESRA MAGAZINE, one never ceases to be amazed at the incredible number of activities that are available to our members and their friends. The fact is that we have a great time meeting each other, participating in hikes, cruises down the Yarkon, fascinating lectures - both educational and enjoyable – trips  and more. Often, when sitting around the table with friends, we say what a wonderful time we have living here in Israel.

Conversely, when we read the papers and watch the news, it comes home to us that our lives are full of contradictions. These past months have made us look at the reality in which we live - a reality that not only applies to Israel, but indeed to the entire world. Who cannot be worried by Iran? Who cannot be concerned by the increasing rise in Muslim fundamentalism? What is especially disappointing is that it was only the United States and Canada – together with Israel – who chose to leave when Ahmadinejad addressed the UN General Assembly at its opening session in September. It would seem that it is perfectly acceptable for most of these other delegates to laud the man who calls for the destruction of Israel - the one Jewish state.  The question to be asked is whether the reaction would have been the same if Ahmadinejad had called for the annihilation of the United Kingdom or France or any other country for that matter?

And so we lead a double life. We enjoy each day – we appreciate ESRA, not only for what it gives us, but also because of what we are able to give to others. Our thirty plus projects make a difference to so many children, youth and adults. We are in the business of creating a healthier tomorrow for those whose lives we change for the better. How proud we are of the ESRA-sponsored Ethiopian Dance Group (youngsters between the ages of nine and twelve, who come together weekly in Netanya) which was invited by the President of Israel to perform at his official Jerusalem Residence on October 31 (to read the report of this see the article ESRA and the President of Israel).  The self-confidence of these teenagers has improved by leaps and bounds thanks to ESRA’s vital input.

Beautiful Ethiopian goods were available for sale at the ESRA stand at the British Embassy’s Summer Fair – under the patronage of the British Ambassador Matthew Gould and Mrs. Gould - which took place recently at the residence of the Ambassador. Aside from ESRA’s support of the talented Ethiopian women whose embroidery skills were on display, it also proved to be an excellent opportunity to promote ESRA and its manifold activities.

As we look around the world today, we are conscious of the increase in anti-Semitism. We are aware of the many challenges facing communities worldwide. Aliyah is on the rise. Throughout the years ESRA has played a key role in the successful integration of immigrants from English speaking countries. Proudly, we say that ESRA can promise them a successful and enjoyable integration into this place we call home. The American poet, Robert Frost, wrote:  “Home is the where, when you have to go there, they have to take you in”. This is precisely what Israel has been and continues to be for the Jewish people.

Chag Chanukah sameach to you and your dear ones!

Brenda Katten

Phyllis Bloch manning the ESRA Stall with it’s Ethiopian embroidery items at the British Embassy’s Summer Fair.

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About the author

Brenda Katten

Brenda Katten was born and educated in London, UK.  She was a member of Bnei Akiva and the Federation of Zionist Youth (FZY). Professionally she worked as a Relationship and Educational C...
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