Finding Community in Crises

There are no words to capture the many emotions we’ve all been experiencing since learning about the savage attack on Israeli civilians by Hamas last weekend. But in processing this, I am acutely aware of the importance of supporting each other as we collectively experience this unfolding crisis with thousands of innocent lives lost throughout Israel and Gaza.

When Sara and I created Language of Friendship in early 2021, our goal was to encourage friendship, connection and community building as we emerged from a global health pandemic. We encourage our readers in this time of extreme violence to focus on finding community by recognizing our common humanity.

As we’ve talked and read about responses to this and other conflicts, Sara and I wish to share some ways we can support others and strengthen community during this crisis:

Check in with others. Particularly your Jewish and Muslim friends, who may feel more vulnerable given recent events. For over a decade I’ve been involved with Hands of Peace, a nonprofit organization that brings together youth from Israel, Palestine, and the United States to build understanding and friendships. The Executive Director in an email wrote in an email this week about the importance of checking in with our Hands of Peace Friends, and others in our communities who may be feeling particularly vulnerable right now.

Support relief efforts. It can be hard to figure out where to send support, and we recommend this article from NPR that provides helpful information in identifying verified charitable organizations responding to this crisis. Sara has previously written on our blog about her family’s long-standing support for Hadassah, an organization focused on building peace in the Middle East through world-class hospitals and medical care.

Honor your emotions, and those of others. Times of crisis do not follow a script, and the fears and uncertainty that accompany a crisis can be difficult to navigate. Sleep and day-to-day tasks can feel more challenging. If you have children, these tips may be helpful.

Educate yourself. Misinformation litters the internet, adding to the emotional response and chaos that terrorists and hate groups thrive on. The conflict is complex and has deep emotional significance for your Jewish and Muslim friends and neighbors. Spouting off ill-informed views is not helpful to anyone. Be an ally for peace.

Our hearts go out to all who are affected by the current atrocities. Our hope is for healing and peace.