In memory of Lucas

We had a memorial for Lucas here today and planted a tree - his family is also making a memorial for him today on the 40th day since he died.

Gabi read this poem:

Hold on to what is good
Even if it is
A handful of earth.
Hold on to what you believe
Even if it is
A tree which stands by itself.
Hold on to what you must do
Even if it is
a long way from here.
Hold on to life even when
it is easier letting go.
Hold on to my hand even when
I have gone away from you.

By Nancy Wood.

She did a very good job reading it. Afterwards (or it could have been before), she went into the synagogue because she was crying and did not want people to see her cry. She'll be a good Israeli.

I spoke in Hebrew about how hard it is to be so far from family especially at this time, and about how planting a tree also honors the memory of Lucas's grandmother, Alen's mother Sylvia, who worked so much to preserve trees and wildlife. Alen spoke in English about Lucas and what he loved. We planted a carob tree.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Eddie, Sophie, Kayleigh, Vlad, Jonny, Lynette, Lisa, Spencer, Cindy, and all those who loved Lucas.