[img]96|left|Shachar||no_popup[/img]Dateline Jerusalem — I have always been blessed with wonderful friends. Some I have known for over 50 years, others have become an integral part of my life in just the last three years I have lived in Israel.

It is often said people have few real friends, that everyone else is an acquaintance. I am honored to have more than just a handful of real friends. That is why I feel blessed. Some friends over the years have become part of my family, as close as a sister or as surrogate aunt to my children. My son-in-law actually thought one of my friends was another sister.

Although I have been in Israel for a short time, my community of friends here made me welcome to this country from Day One. At first just strangers I met on a bus, train or at my synagogue, I was immediately invited to dinners and lunches. Often I have been the only outsider included in their private family events. Just as I have friends that I consider family, I have often been told by some friends here that I am part of their family. At first I thought it was because I was alone in this country. Without knowing anyone, they wanted me to feel at ease. But now they actually have to compete for my presence at their dining room tables because more often than not, my schedule is booked. I must carry a calendar with me at all times.

Rushing to Assist

Last week when I injured my foot, friends came to my rescue. They have gone to the market, to the bakery, to the fruit/vegetable store, to the butcher, to an appliance store, and to the post office for me. One friend got me a wheelchair since the hospital did not provide me with that or crutches. Now I can leave my apartment so that another friend can take me to the doctor. Others have cooked fabulous meals for me and made extra helpings — “just in case.” Some have visited and brought me books and magazines in English. Others have come to water my plants, wash my dishes and take down the trash.

One offered to wash my clothes while another offered to wash my hair since they know I have difficulty moving around in my apartment. I declined both of those offers. My laundry is piling up but I just can't imagine anyone else doing something as personal as laundry. As for washing my hair, it was difficult. My cast got wet and my bathroom floor was soaked. But I managed.

About 25 years ago I won a recliner chair on a quiz show. I shipped it to Israel because of its sentimental value to me. This past week it has become my “home” within my home. I sleep in it, eat in it and work in it. About the only time I leave it is to slide onto a desk chair with wheels that I use to scoot from my living room to the kitchen and bathroom and back again.

How Do People Know?

Since I have no crutches and am unable to put any weight on my foot, I have been living in my recliner. Also, it is in the only room with an air conditioner that works. Considering August is the hottest month in Israel, I have had my noisy, inefficient air conditioner on 24/7 in order to cope with the heat and humidity. I hate to see what my electric bill will be this month.

Israel is a word-of-mouth country. Even if a disaster occurs during a Shabbat when TVs, phones and computers are off, everyone knows about it. Originally, just my friend who accompanied me to the hospital, the taxi driver, and one other friend knew of my injury. Now I think all of Israel knows I am laid up, and they want to help me out.

What a wonderful feeling to know I have such good friends. It is hard having my family in the States, but the people in Israel have definitely made my adjustment to life here a wonderful experience.

L'hitraot. Shachar (Dawn)

Shachar is the Hebrew name of a California-based attorney and former Los Angeles County deputy sheriff who moved to Israel three years ago.