Hitkadmut

The other day, I met our cleaning lady for the first time. During our brief chit chat, I learned that she and her husband moved from Brazil...17 years ago. Asking them both if they are at nostalgic or miss home, both shook their heads no and that the United States is wonderful. I continued to ask them about the process to become American citizens, in which the husband shared it has been 8 years and for each person, the cost is approximately $5,000 plus legal expenses (approximately $15,000+ for his household). He then double checked that I am not a lawyer, their secret safe with me.

Two things struck me today on the way to work, in the rainy, melting snowy weather and endless traffic.

1) The privilege being American and
2) The blessing that as Jews, we have a homeland

This reminded me of the whirlwind two of my three sisters had when my father passed away so suddenly. Their Israeli passports were expired. The family literally did not know what to expect or how they'd get in and out of Israel. Upon arrival at Ben Gurion, both were taken aside, the tears streaming down and stress of erev Shabbat, as my father's burial would be around 2 PM Israel time. My sisters were let into the country, and just the same, they were let out and told to correct their documents as soon as possible.

I cannot fathom any other country in the world that would be accepting in such a way. To open its doors in times of distress, but hopefully more so, in seizing moments of opportunity.

Nefesh B'Nefesh charges $100 per application fee. The Jewish Agency covers the flights. We've spent more on obtaining United States legal documentation than the other way around. The cost of a lift, more or less should be about the same as if we were to move to another state (from Malden to Sharon it cost $2,000 plus the legal fees for closing on a house, etc).

Which brings me back to my birth certificate saga. Nefesh B'Nefesh advised that we can continue, as I have my Israeli passport, which should link to my mother's correct maiden name and information (as our kids would say, "duh!"). We'll still have it fixed, because I'm sure if not, it'll come up again. Don't move abroad or even live without proper documentation!

The process of obtaining Israeli citizenship is unlike the American process. For that, it's not only a blessing to have a homeland but a privilege. It doesn't take much, but a dream, will and a lot of patience.

 אם תרצו אין זו אגדה

Hearing Josh proclaim this morning "there's good news!" I didn't feel too many butterflies, but extreme happiness. 






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