Koolulam

About a week ago, I was privileged to be part of a bucket-list experience in the city of Haifa in Israel.  Three thousand people  – – men, women, Jews, Arabs, secular, religious, immigrants, sabras, old and young – – came together to sing Matisyahu’s “One Day” in Hebrew, English and Arabic.  There was an incredible feeling of unity.  Every one of the 3,000 people there want the same thing:  peace.

We arrived at a hangar in Haifa Port, where the women were given red or yellow dot stickers signifying soprano or alto.  The men were grouped separately as bass.  We were given a sheet with the lyrics, and split into our groups so we could learn our parts – – all in about one hour.  The amazing director somehow held the attention of 3,000 previously boisterous souls and everyone enthusiastically belted out the tune.

Israelis never cease to amaze me with their positivity and optimism, their ongoing affirmation and celebration of life,  their belief in ultimate goodness, and their faith in the future.  I’m so happy that now, I too can call myself Israeli and merit belonging to this incredible, unique society and culture.

We are living the dream.

Here is the link to our performance:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=share&v=XqvKDCP5-xE&