Today I am immobilized with grief over the terrorism in Mumbai. My prayers go out to all the innocent people and their families who lost their lives. As a foreigner myself, living in a foreign country this tragedy makes me fearful for my own safety. I live far from Mumbai, and I feel safe in Tongliao, but I am still a target for those who dislike Western influence. It really doesn't matter that this terrorism happened it Mumbai. These acts of hateful and well planned violence can happen anywhere. We need to fight back by sending light out to the world, and encouraging acceptance for a world full of people who have varying lifestyles and religious beliefs.
I am most saddened by the death of the young Chabad couple in Mumbai. I have been blessed to meet several Chabad families in my travels and adventures, and have always been invited into their homes for Shabbat, for a traveler's refuse, or for religious inquiry. I find Chabad people to be joyful, hard-working and loving people who try to bridge gaps between the differences that Jews around the world share. I was not raised Jewish, but was always accepted into Chabad homes, and even invited to take part in a free trip to Israel with a Chabad Rabbi and his wife from Pittsburg. My heart goes out to all Chabad houses, all Jews, and all Israelis who've experienced grief and fear from this act of terrorism.
me in Tzfat, Israel
Rabbi and our Israeli guide Yonatan
May we send them our prayers and work for peace and forgiveness in our own hearts.
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