Starting tonight and continuing through tomorrow is Yom HaZikaron, memorial day.  it is taken very seriously in Israel.  Many people have stories of family or friends killed in the army or in terrorists attacks. we had a BIG ceremony tonight with all of the programs like ours, with people giving personal stories as well as performances. 

tomorrow, we are going to Har Herzl, the equivalent of Arlington National Cemetery.  We are handing out water, flowers, and an ear to whoever is willing to talk about the grave they are visiting.  It is apparently hectic, especially in the recent soldier sections.

The following day is Yom HaAtzmaut, independence day.  quite a change of mood.