Shabbat in Nahariya

Nahariya – Shabbat by Anice Stark
On the northwest coast of Israel is a medium sized city, called Nahariya. It is the furthest city in Northern Israel, nor far from the Lebanese border. During the summer of 2006, and the Second Lebanon War, they had a very difficult time. Many rockets fell on the City and there were a couple of deaths and lots of trauma.
This year’s visit was totally different – no sign of the war that we could see. The City was hustle and bustle from early morning on. Thursday night was especially busy as it was the start of the weekend for many. On Friday, the stores, coffee bars and restaurants started closing down about 4PM and a sort of quiet settled over the City. It was wonderful to hear Shabbat Shalom from one and all.
Saturday started out sunny and pleasant, many of us took a walk on the tayelet (boardwalk along the sea). There were lots of families walking, biking, jogging and after shul many more joined in walking. Many of the non-religious families were at a cafes and restaurants (some are open) enjoying a late breakfast and early lunches. It is a wonderful and unusual experience, which never fails to move me. A delicious peace descends over all the Country!