As the Geula ushers in a time of peace, G-dliness, and goodness, the energy of the opposite – hatred, disunity and war gets ushered out.  Intuitively, these opposing forces of light recognize their demise and therefore in this physical realm, they appear to be strengthening.  But with our mind’s eyes open to the spiritual reality, we can recognize that it is darkest before dawn and therefore, just before the immense G-dly light of Geula shines forth, the  gross “realities” of destruction rear their heads for one last attempt to destroy that which is life.

One way to combat the darkness and those who hate, bully and murder is to show strength, unity and joy.  A few months ago, Jewish singer, Gad Elbaz did just that. In response to the terror attacks on French journalists and Jews, he united Jewish, Christian and Muslim dancers in a solidarity song of joy and brought it to the streets of Paris.  He enlivened the well- known song “Hava Negila” which translates as “Let’s be happy” and amidst the fear and heightened tensions, spread light and courage.  He said “it’s all about people taking a stand and refusing to be bullied ….”