Gives up the honor in his humble way: This morning (Wednesday) Idan Amadi landed a bomb, and not the kind he lands when he’s on the battlefield. The talented singer, who is currently undergoing rehabilitation after being injured during the fighting in Gaza, announced in his humble way that he is renouncing the honor of raising a torch.
“There is no greater honor than this, but unfortunately I will not be able to receive this honor this year. We discovered so many heroes from that black Sabbath, some of them were my warriors in the past or in the current war. This year I will stay in my home and unite with their memory like many in the people of Israel,’ said Amadi after accepting the offer.
This announcement caught everyone off guard, especially the grantors of the honorable status, who were embarrassed by his decision to refuse. Amadi is known for his contribution and love of the country, the kind that sets a high bar every time anew when it comes to values and sensitivity.
deep disconnection
With this necessary and correct decision, Amadi set a mirror for the government, which is busy with ceremonies while there are more than 130 abductees who have been held captive by Hamas for 174 days.
After all, in what reasonable world does it come to mind to hold a beacon lighting ceremony, and how deep is the disconnection? Over the years I have interviewed Amadi twice (his eyes sparkled every time we talked about the IDF), and from my acquaintance with him, I can confirm that this decision of his is not political. This is not a matter of right and left, but there is a matter of basic logic, backbone and mutual guarantee.
Imagine for a moment us being moved and in tears in front of the screen. Watching the shows, the singers and the audience, where all those who brought us to our huge crisis will also sit. At the same time, the kidnapped are languishing in a dark tunnel, waiting for someone to save them from this never-ending nightmare. Praying for a familiar voice, a hug, a bed or a warm meal. Remember what you accomplished in six months, and they are still in the same room.
Think about Romi, Almog, Ofer, Doron, Yair, Eitan, and also about Daniela, who celebrated her birthday in Gaza yesterday and we all know what her basic wish is that we are unable to fulfill it. Think about the suffering of their family members, the thoughts that go through their heads and how they even manage to fall asleep.
Amadi’s refusal should be an example to all those who will be offered to raise a torch. And like him, the moderators Tamir Steinman and Maggie Tavibi should have put down the microphone and given up the stand at least until everyone is at home. The invited singers should also cancel their participation.
The equation is simple: there is war and abductees, there are no official ceremonies.
This step is our minimum as a people and as a society. For them, for their families, for the fighting soldiers and for all of us. Whoever chooses to participate in the ceremony or watch it, that is of course his right. Whoever this ceremony will strengthen him – rather. Those who will draw optimism and hope from him – why not. But I, as a viewer, would prefer not to this year.
were we wrong We will fix it! If you found an error in the article, we would appreciate it if you shared it with us
ظهرت في الأصل على www.israelhayom.co.il