As major changes occur every day in this region, it is not only difficult to chart the mood of the country and of the self.  Everything alters from minute to minute – from hope to terror.  

So we decided a few months ago to rest up with family and friends in New York.  We leave in the morning.  But I have acquired so many tasks in the US that who knows what kind of rest we will have.  The imperatives to help, to unite, to tikkun – for all those involved in the unrest – make rest and relaxation difficult.