What does Zionism mean to you?

I've been thinking a lot about this trip. What it means to me. How honored I am to be included in it. It got me thinking about what does Zionism really mean to me. I mean everyone who knows me - knows I am one of the biggest fans of the place - as I told my new found Dor Hemshech friend, Eva, I am an Israel Addict. Come to think of it - that should have been my blog name - can I change it?

Anyway, what does Zionism mean to me? Herzl z'l saw the need for a place for Jews - a safe haven - a state of their own where they could govern themselves and be safe to be - well Jewish. Now that we have Israel (next week it'll be 62 years!) - it seems that some people have lost sight of that need. It is frightening to me to think this. How can people forget so quickly how important it is that we exist? That we have a right to exist? That we shoud be able to exist in safety and security?

Today at shul I saw a 17 year old who is living in Israel but visiting for his brothers bar mitzvah, (he was born here and made aliyah 5 years ago - his family moved back but he stayed there). He spoke to the shul about his life there - how he loves it and he too mentioned that people are forgetting the ideals of zionism. He implored us to remember how awesome it is that Israel exists, and all She has accomplished in 62 years...its truly amazing when you think about it. In the summer he will be entering the army - I asked him where he is going - he told me he hopes an elite combat unit or paratroopers. We need more guys like him. Guys that are proud to be Jewish, proud to be Israeli, and willing to fight for what he believes in. I am not saying war is the way to go - I would much rather the path of peace. I would much rather not having my nephews, friends, and family risking their lives all the time. However for any peace to be real - we must stand up for what we believe in - we must stand up for Israel and Her right to exist - in peace - in safety, and security. That is zionism for me today.

What does Zionism mean to you?