* Translated by Janine Muller Sherr
Sigi Cohen, mother of hostage Eliya Cohen, who returned yesterday to Israel, told me this story about a year ago. I believe that it contains an important and timeless message for all us. It was during one of the first Shabbatot that I spent with her and other families of hostages under the auspices of the organization, “Kesher Yehudi.” I interviewed her on stage and this is what she told me:
“Two years ago, I experienced a medical crisis. I was overwhelmed with worry and fear. One day, Eliya called me and said in a firm voice: “Mom, aren’t you a woman of faith? It’s time to get up. Don’t give up, God is running the show. You have strength. I won’t allow you fall.”
From that time forward, I was determined to get up. He was right. Fear doesn’t help. All of us are filled inside with strength and faith. This conversation with Eliya has given me strength until this day. I always hear his voice in my head lifting me up.”
And while her son was being held hostage in Gaza, Sigi did, indeed, get up and take action. Throughout Israel and around the world, she organized many gatherings dedicated to doing mitzvot and good deeds. She especially encouraged people to participate in the recitation of Birkat Kohanim—the priestly blessing—at their synagogues since her son, who is a Kohen, was not able to recite the blessing during that time.
Back then, a year ago, she told me that we need to spread Eliya’s message to the entire Jewish people: “Each one of us needs to listen to that small voice telling us that God believes in us. We have strength. Do not allow yourself to fall.”
May we hear good news soon.
