76 different Menorahs were handcrafted and delivered to 76 families who lost sons in Tzuk Eitan as part of our “ima l’ima” mother-to-mother project. An artist from Kibbutz Ashdod Yaakov (in the Jordan Valley) created these menorahs from various types of colored glass, and metal. The metal consisted of scrap metal that fell when the Iron Dome intercepted incoming missiles. Inscribed on a curved piece metal contained on each menorah were words “on the strength . . . and on the wars” (words taken from the prayer that is said during the Shemonei Esrei of Chanukah as well as during the bentching). In middle of each Menorah was a map of Gaza showing the course of the war. There are no words to describe the reactions of these families upon receiving the menorahs. There were tears of sadness but also of gratitude that we remembered their sons. Somehow that helped a little bit to ease their pain, sense of loss and isolation. Just as the families were deeply moved, so were our volunteers who delivered the menorahs. Here is the translation of the letter that we enclosed with each menorah:
"For You, silence is praise." These poignant words are a fitting tribute to those heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice - quietly, without words, like candles that shed light and warmth noiselessly, and then suddenly disappear. To them we owe the light and hope we possess. We remember them, and we speak of their pure souls; their memory remains etched in our hearts and gives us the strength to live on. May G-d grant us the ability to carry forward at least some of their bright light for the sake of our nation, our children and grandchildren, that they may enjoy peace and security for all generations. From one mother to another, Ayelet Hashachar.
Finally we heartily thank Dr. David Landau and his wife (London) who encouraged us to complete this project and provided some of the financial support.