Israel – Page 2 – Sandra Chen

For years I wanted to witness the the almond blossom, just like other Israelis on social media. For many reasons, this never happened until a few days ago. It was worth the long journey. Since most of my friends live in breathtaking places, I love going on small journeys with them.

Looking at the almond blossom I wondered how could I miss out on this view for so many years? I promised to explore the country a little bit more during my time off from the army. I love Israel. It has so much to offer and in so many aspects. The nature has many stories hidden in it, looking for those who are willing to listen. The Almonds have a story too. They aren’t necessarily telling the story of some ancient heroes living in Cna’an but rather the story of one’s dreams and aspirations.

For me, this experience meant finding meaning in the things I chose to do in life. Gathering all the thoughts into somethings that eventually makes sense to me. Honestly I am not there yet and probably will not have clear understanding until I am a bit older. With that being said, the almond blossom was in a way, a sign for me that some major changes are needed to be done- and for now, it is enough for me.

Southern Israel has always been very special to me. No, I don’t talk about the Negev but rather about the Gaza Strip. Well maybe southern to Tel Aviv is a proper description. My dad who works in Asdod, had taken us (before quarantine) to tour around the city and discover its best restaurants. There are so many other great places at the south. It has always been clear to me that my military service will be next to the Gaza Strip. This makes everything perfect.

Not really.

In times of emergency, the south is attacked by the rockets from Gaza and the red alert is sounded all over the area. For many kids, waking up to this sound is pretty normal and some people spend longer time in shelters rather than their own rooms. Now, that I am serving in the army, I can identify with the southern citizens. I have been there. I now know what it is like to spend days worrying about the future of my family and friends and to care for those who need more support during these difficult times.

This, however, is not what the south is all about. There are beautiful sides to it too. Every year, around February all the way to May, the forests in southern Israel bloom with red. The Anemones! Not only the show the beauty of this controversial part of Israel, but also they bring joy to the entire Israeli population! Families from places as far as Metula, come witness the beauty of the Anemones.

This is such a special occasion to me. After getting the second vaccine for Covid, I made my friends go and watch the blooming of these amazing flowers with me. Reluctantly, they agreed, and even though there were not a lot of Anemones at this time of the year, I couldn’t be happier.

Not only I enjoyed the breathtaking bloom and the story behind the Anemones, but also the company of my best friends, who have already become family.

Category: Israel

Rosy almonds

Red South