The phrase "unity of the people" is heard over and over again from public figures, bereaved parents, and reserve soldiers. Everyone longs to live in a reality where we are all united and united. But it seems that every year this aspiration becomes a dream that is getting further and further away from us.
Perhaps the problem lies in the concept of unity. It does not mean that one should give up worldviews and various positions on current affairs. The greatness of unity lies in its ability to bear differences. It is possible to be united even if one does not agree, and even when there are sharp differences of opinion.
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It is possible to have respect for each other even if one believes that the other is completely wrong, and even when he strongly opposes his opinion. Unity takes into account that 'their opinions are not equal,' and yet it finds the common point, stronger than all the differences and differences between one person and another.
True and accurate colors
The roots of Jewish unity lie in the common essence of all of us. We are the sons of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Within every Jew resides a soul that is a 'part of God from above.' We have one God, one Torah, one land. This common foundation casts a solid anchor for maintaining unity even in the face of disagreements and differences.
But adults are too fixated on social and tribal categories. Hence the tendency to dismiss the ideological opponent, to paint him in negative colors, and to be unable to see the positive sides of him and the deep common denominator between us all.
This is the advantage of children. They have no prejudices and are not imprisoned within walls that separate one Jew from another. See the ease and speed with which children who come from different backgrounds connect with each other and find a common language. They see reality in more true and accurate colors, and therefore it is natural for them to connect and unite.
We will be able to see Jewish unity in all its beauty next week, in the Lag BaOmer processions. Rabbi Shimon Bar-Yochai was blessed with a day of celebration that succeeded in uniting hundreds of thousands of Israeli children. It is exciting to see every year the multitudes of children, from every class, community, sect and way of life, marching together in a demonstration of love for Israel and love for the Torah.
Power to win
When you look at these parades, it is suddenly clear that we are all one people and that all the divisions are artificial. The children's parades demonstrate a clear message – we are not a collection of tribes and groups. We are not separated by worldviews and differing views. We are all Jews, and the foundation that unites us is strong and solid.
The Sages attribute special power to the children of Israel, to their prayer and Torah, which are defined as "a sinless thing." King David says in the Book of Psalms (8:3): "From the mouth of the wild ox and the wild boar You have established strength, for the sake of Your afflictions, to bring down the enemy and their avenger." Children have the power to thwart the enemy's schemes and grant victory to the people of Israel.
Participating in these processions is, first and foremost, a tremendous privilege for each and every one of us, every boy and girl, every parent, grandparent. When you come with your children to the processions, you give immense spiritual strength to the entire Jewish people, and you receive all the blessings bestowed on this special occasion – blessings for all good things, and especially for peace from the children!
