On October 7, during the fierce attack by Hamas on Israel, a group of armed terrorists stormed the city of Sderot, indiscriminately shooting at anyone in their path. They arrived at a bus stop on the main avenue, where a group of elderly people eagerly awaited the bus that would take them on a special trip to a spa at the Dead Sea. However, the terrorists had other plans. Upon seeing the elderly, they did not hesitate to shoot and kill them in cold blood. Their blood-covered bodies remained on the sidewalk for three days until they could finally be removed.
In honour of the memory of these murdered elders, we have organized a trip with a new group of elderly people, who would spend a relaxing day at a spa in the Dead Sea. This is the trip that couldn’t happen, a symbolic act to show that this city is not a city of death, but of life, and that our love is greater than their hate.
Early on Shabbat morning, the bus was already there, waiting for the elderly. It was an emotional moment, as the images of that tragic day came to mind while the elders arrived. But this time, the atmosphere was different; it truly felt like a victory.
One of the elderly passengers, while boarding the bus, shared their feelings: “The last few months have been very difficult. I want to recover as soon as possible, return to normal life, and enjoy it. This trip to the Dead Sea helps us a lot right now,” they said with evident emotion.
Another passenger added: “We live in a constant state of stress, and people need to rest. We need these trips to regain strength, calm our nervous system, and when we return to our hometown, we can continue with our lives.”
During the journey, the elderly passengers enjoyed the trip, sharing smiles and moments of joy. The scenes of them relaxing at the spa, eating, and laughing were a clear testimony to the resilience of the human spirit. However, one of the most emotional moments of the day came when an elderly person in the group dedicated a few words to those who are no longer with us: “We dedicate this day to those who wanted to be here but, unfortunately, couldn’t make it. We will never forget them. Today, as we swim and smile, we also smile for them,” they said.
At the end of the day, after returning to the city, the elderly, visibly tired but satisfied, rested peacefully on the bus. The day had been a success, and the message was clear: we remember the victims, but we also emphasize that despite the suffering, we remain united, we move forward, and we trust that the God of Israel will never abandon us.
This day was not just an excursion; it was a declaration of life and hope in the face of hate.
Michael Beener
