Guilt Remains, Even Among Heroes

At our last meeting, we raised the bar to a ten-kilometer ride. It was challenging for some of the new riders joining the group. We cycled along the banks of the Taninim Stream, enjoying a stunning sunset that gradually gave way to the glow of our bike lights.

Holding the line

In the second part of the evening, we gathered around the bonfire and held a discussion about the challenges of transitioning from civilian life to combat duty. We spoke about the struggles that have been with us since the war — a topic especially relevant now, as almost all of us were suddenly called up during the attack on Iran. This group setting feels like therapy, allowing us to finally release things that have been building up in our hearts for months.

What struck me most this time was realizing how many of us carry feelings of guilt. Yes — guilt. We may be regarded as heroes, but as husbands, as parents, and as employees, we often feel torn. There’s the sense of leaving our wives to cope alone with the kids and the house; children who instantly recognize, just from the sight of our packed gear, that Dad is about to disappear again for a long time; and the challenges at work — delayed projects, colleagues who are affected, and the embarrassment that comes with feeling indebted to those around us.

This circle, where we’re all part of the conversation and speak openly and without masks, is a powerful form of personal and group healing. By supporting TogetherAgain, you’re personally helping these heroes who sacrifice so much. It’s a great privilege for me to be part of it. We’re encouraged by the progress we’ve made and look forward to expanding to other areas around the country soon.

Am Yisrael Chai.