Happy birthday to Israel!

May 9, 2011 - 1:29 PM by David

Yes, we know that Jerusalem’s Ben Yehuda street is getting to be a clichéd location for flash mobs. But as Israelis gear up to celebrate Independence Day tonight and tomorrow, here’s a rousing video tribute to the diversity of the country.

Despite the problems and dangers facing us as we commemorate 63 years of independence, there’s so much to be proud of – and this impressive single-shot clip featuring a cross-section of Israeli society (or at least volunteers dressed up to portray that cross-section) gives some of the flavor of the Israeli mosaic.

We have a tendency to agonize, self-reflect and magnify our shortcomings – and we’re really good at doing that to everyone around us. So it’s nice that Israelis have one day to bask in their accomplishments of 63 years.

At the same time, here’s another clip, this innovative one courtesy of Nefesh B’Nefesh which touts the attraction of aliya. Maybe the 63 year mark is the perfect time to stop admiring Israel from afar and jump into the mud with the rest of us…

Yom Haatzmat Sameach – Happy Independence Day!