This Shabbat is the last one of the year— 5784.
A lot has happened in each of our own personal lives overt the year, and then there’s the collective reality of Am Yisrael — something that we all share in oh, such a deep and essential way.
Earlier this week I read an article referencing a report coming from the Arab Research Institute that concludes that “the firm stand of Israel is not what was expected. They expected that Israel would not last, that the pressures from home and abroad would overwhelm her”.
That’s not what caught my eye however. The report continues that this campaign (aka war)urges them to learn more about the “distraction and confusion tactics” used by the Israeli media which has flooded the Arab and Western media recently — with leaks about conflicts between Israeli officials on subjects about the war.
Simply put they can’t understand how despite all the conflicts internally in Israel and the seeming fracture in society, Israel is able to move forward as one collective body. The only explanation is that Israel is engaged in a disinformation war designed to confuse the enemy.
This is a Laugh Out Loud moment! We all know that the difference of opinion —very strong opinions that is— is the reality in Israel and the Jewish world as a matter of fact. We also know that the miracle of the Jewish nation, is that we are ONE nation.
Say what you want about this past year, one thing is indisputable. The level of oneness and unity that was experienced this year post October 7th is a life changer for each of us. It needs to be recorded in posterity because it highlights the indivisible nature of Am Yisrael seldom experienced — usually relegated to the books.
One Nation Undivided Under G-d! A truth that runs deeper than ALL other distractions and that has totally befuddled our enemies.
Indeed, it’s no surprise that the Shabbat before Rosh Hashana we always read the Torah portion called Nitzavim which means “standing firm and resolute”. It’s Moses’s last message to the Jewish nation and for this address “everyone” as in 
of the people were there as Moses passed the torch in covenant to the eternal nation.
In truth, we only know one way and that’s why we are here. The torch has been passed to us and difficult as it is — we are holding that torch firmly, with strength, pride and joy. Am Yisrael Chai!!
Bring on 5785 we have what it takes, we’ve proven that — SHABBAT SHALOM!!!
With best wishes for a Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi Yehuda & Dina Kantor