Tel Aviv - March 9, 2010

minaret in Jaffa

monks in Jerusalem

star of David on paddle

Israel Defense Forces

Israeli flag hanging from apartment balcony

Israeli flag among fresh veggies

IDF Forces in Jerusalem

One of the most fascinating things about traveling is one's heightened sense of awareness of one's new surroundings. Every detail becomes interesting -- it's as if you are suddenly bombarded with different sensations. Even a simple stroll in a new neighborhood brings with it a sense of newness and adventure. Simply observing becomes an adventure.

There are several of these "simple observations" that occurred to me while in Israel that seem unique to the country that I would like to summarize briefly.

Israel is a deeply patriotic country with much pride and heritage. Even though the political spectrum is vast and opinions vary on almost every subject imaginable, Israelis are proud of their country and are not at all shy about showing their patriotism. I came upon the Israeli flag in some of the most unusual places. I could find the blue Star of David flag in the middle of a food display in the Carmel Market, along the shores of the beach in Tel Aviv, hanging from a Jerusalem porch balcony, and enlarged to form the side of a building in Tel Aviv.

The Israeli Defense Forces, known as the IDF or Zahal, is an integral part of Israeli society. Every young man and woman is required to serve for three years in the IDF with some exceptions. Because of this, one can often see young people in the streets of Israel wearing army fatigues and toting rifles -- not something usually seen in the streets of the US, Canada, or Europe. Groups of young army members are often seen walking casually and leisurely among regular pedestrians. It does take some getting used to to see this striking sight. I often think of the parents of these young people and the courage they must face to know that their children are defending their homeland.

The constant reminder of the spiritual and religious significance of the country cannot be underestimated. Whether in the cities or villages, there are constant reminders that this is indeed the Holy Land. Signs and symbols of the three main religions can be found throughout the country.