Rabbi's Musings

Imagine if Harry Potter’s parents weren’t murdered by Voldemort. Imagine if there were no trauma that began the whole seven-novel story. Harry would be a normal student at Hogwarts. He would presumably be happy. There would be no story but no tragedy either. 

Sometimes I wonder what would happen if Israel, born in 1948, had never needed to fight for her survival since day one, actually even before she declared herself a state. Imagine if she had been created and could simply live in peace. No terrorism. No boycotts. No need to stand ever vigilant, with compulsory army service for all but the ultra-Orthodox, and reserve service for all men up through middle-age.

A few years ago I was able to imagine what Israel would be like if this were the case. Traveling through Costa Rica, that beautiful and friendly country in Central America, I was able to enjoy the gorgeous views, thrilling adventures, and simple, sweet life of a successful and relaxed country. 

I found it ironic that the same year Israel became a state and commenced upon a state of never-ending war, Costa Rica abolished its army. You can even buy a t-shirt in the airport that proudly declares: “Costa Rica: No Army Since 1948.” What has Costa Rica done with all the money it did not spend on missiles, tanks, and the care and feeding of a military force? It has invested in a world-class healthcare and education system. It has created numerous national parks. And most importantly, its youngsters grow up living with countless opportunities to grow and prosper without risking their lives defending their country.
 
The book Start Up Nation relates how Israelis have become world masters in the technology field. In no small part this is due to its forced innovation as a country always worried about defense. I have no doubt that Israel’s strong drive to excel would not be as pronounced without its continued state of war. My guess, however, is that most Israelis would gladly trade some excellence in innovation for a chance for peace for themselves and their family.

Imagine: all that energy directed toward relaxed, pleasant living. It is a dream for Israel but also a reminder that Israelis want that dream to come true. And it is our task as Israel’s friends to never stop hoping that one day Israelis and Costa Ricans can meet together and speak of all the things they have in common: a small but vibrant country, beautiful nature, countless parks, diverse wildlife. Lots of tourists. And no need for an army. That’s a meeting I’d like to see!