It is always interesting to me to see different places in the world. I enjoy seeing how other people live and how different cultures incorporate traditions, different climates, available foods, etc. into their society.

I’m sharing with you today some photos I took while on my walks yesterday and today. As you know, we are in the midst of the Feast of Tabernacles and what has become normal for me would seem strange to many of you.

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During this time of lockdown, restaurants, hotels and malls are closed. The municipality has also roped off the exercise equipment throughout our city and the beaches are closed to all except those who are exercising (swimming or paddling in the sea).

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Normally, this is such a wonderful time for families and friends to get together in their sukkahs. It is also a time when people frequent the malls and restaurants. This has been a more subdued holiday this year in many ways, although we have heard each evening people singing in their sukkahs until late in the evening. The restrictions are, right now, that only people who live at your home can be in your sukkah. No family members who live in a different home may be in your sukkah or in your home

Many people are finding that they have more time at home right now. This is certainly true for us! We have been in Israel since the end of February and we are enjoying our time at home. We have used these months to complete many projects and connect more with our study group here.

I’d like to encourage you to take some special time to be with your spouse or loved ones over a pot of tea. Baruch and I have taken up this very inexpensive habit every day in order to spend time together and just to connect with each other. It gives a time of peace in a hectic day! In I Timothy 2:1-2, we are exhorted that we pray for all, including all that are in authority, so that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. Let us take some time of quiet to really hear those who are closest to us!