Simon and his wife arrived in Tel Aviv on January 8th with the idea of spending time with their daughter and family there, having a side trip to South Africa and returning home in May. Fortunately they were able to go to South Africa as planned, but were also fortunate to get back to Israel just before the borders were shut down due to the corona virus. They moved into a small apartment with their daughter, son-in-law, a 2 1/2 year old toddler and a brand new baby in order to help with the children, especially a new baby.
The government lock down was very aggressive allowing only limited excursions from the home and with limited distances. They had to wear masks whenever they were away from their home. He cited that in a country of 9.2 Million people, only 212 have died from the virus.
As the lock down is at a time of many religious traditions, it was obvious that many families were impacted by not being able to be together to carry out normal rituals and celebrations.
Their flight to Canada was cancelled and now rescheduled for mid-June, however, there is speculation that non-essential air travel will cancelled until September.
The country is beginning to open with limitations. Stores with street front access can open and fast food restaurants are opening. Unfortunately the open air markets which are very popular there are not allowed to open. The city is starting to become busier and more active.
Simon reflected on our "western" experience of isolation saying that for most of us its an inconvenience when compared with the conditions he saw in South Africa were social distancing and necessary hygiene would be almost impossible to maintain.
Simon also commented on the political climate there which is too complex to explain in these short notes. If you can watch the entire presentation, he explains it well there.
We look forward to Simon's return to Canada, and to the time when we can all be together again for meetings and activities. Until then, stay safe and stay home.
