Navigating Complexity and Finding Light in the Midst of Darkness
In the midst of all the darkness and turmoil, there’s this strange mix of finding joy and beauty even in a time of pain. I often find myself feeling guilty for living a life where love can exist while surrounded by so much hurt and suffering. It’s easy to become over-consumed by what’s going on, and sometimes it feels best to try to focus on the positive (a beautiful sunset, a good cup of coffee, or a meaningful conversation with a friend), which is not easy in this climate of anger, hatred, and misinformation in the media. And then, writing that, I even feel guilt for being able to enjoy, let alone access, these types of things.
I’m slowly learning to understand the complexity of this reality. Complex is feeling that my home here in Israel is the safest place for me and my friends as Jews, even when it is not a safe place. Complex is feeling anger for what is occurring on both sides of this conflict. Complex is mourning while constantly needing to explain ourselves.
Recently I’ve been sharing highlights of my life online and I often question the morality of doing so. How can I post about anything other than the heart-wrenching situation unfolding here? What message does it send to those abroad, unaware of the true extent of the war?
I realize that for those who live abroad, glimpses into our daily lives via social media might inadvertently suggest that things aren’t as bad as they truly are. It’s easy to assume that we’ve forgotten amidst the snapshots of normalcy. But the truth is, reminders of the ongoing war, of the hostages still separated from their families and homes, are constantly present. Each moment serves as a stark reminder. Yet, we persist.
We stick together and keep pushing through and pressing forward. Here, we manage to find these little moments of healing and light, even when everything else seems so bleak. We weave together moments of healing and hope and create a delicate balance between life and death, darkness and light.
“I AM LOVE
DESPITE THE HATE
AROUND ME
I AM PEACE
DESPITE THE WAR
AGAINST ME
I AM COURAGE
DESPITE THE FEAR
INSIDE ME”
- @elish_______
