Posted on 10/18/23
Jerusalem, Israel - Oct. 18, 2023 - Today, I went to donate blood at the Magen David station at the main basketball arena in Jerusalem. I urge and feel strongly that all bnei Torah and bas Torah should run to perform this simple but important mitzvah לפענ״ד. It’s a חיוב דאורייתא on many levels.
I stood next to Jews from all walks of life, including secular, dati leumi, chassidic, light, and Yerushalmi Yidden - עמך ישראל קבוצי מטה. When I entered and waited in line, I asked a secular woman if she had set an appointment online (which can help speed up the process). She gave me a curt answer, "No, I haven’t." I was a little surprised, uncertain if it was because I am from the frum orthodox camp, but I also realized she might be under stress, which is unfortunately common for our people during these stressful times.
Although the lines weren’t long when I arrived (between 1-2 pm), the process took a while. We were placed on two separate cots, with two different people taking blood from us. Earlier, while waiting, she had inquired about the duration of the process. A volunteer estimated half an hour (it was longer). The lady mentioned she's a therapist with patients to attend. It was evident she was educated and keen to donate blood for the war effort (בע"ה it should not be needed).
As I lay on the cot, she began to cry. The Magen David Adom staff tried comforting her, asking if she feared the blood withdrawal. She clarified that her anguish stemmed from her son being in an elite unit, seeing action and potentially being at the Gaza frontlines. Her overwhelming emotions were from the terrifying possibilities for her son. I then realized her earlier cold demeanor wasn’t due to my being charedi but her emotional state as a mother with a child about to enter a war zone. She represents countless Israeli parents, always concerned about their beloved children. May Hashem protect and have mercy on all of Klal Yisroel.
We later conversed with an older professional, emphasizing the need to remain calm and positive, not just for ourselves but for our families. She, having lived here for a long time, has weathered tough times. I remarked on our shared responsibility and that achdus is our secret weapon. Our nation has endured throughout history - נצח ישראל לא ישקר. We left the blood donation for אחינו בית ישראל feeling heartened, knowing בית ישראל בטחו בהשם עדי עד, כי בק׳ה השם צור עולמים.
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Rabbi Liff also shares a photo of his grandson, Nechemya, who together with all our brothers and sisters is doing his part in the defense of our people. May Hashem watch over them all.
