Happy Birthday Israel

It was touching to watch the images of Israel's 60th aniversary celebration yesterday night.

After having been there last September my affection towards the Jewish State and its inhabitants grew considerably. Few times, as a tourist, have I been treated with such hospitality and friendliness, openess and warmth. My visit to Israel, surelly, exceeded all my (very poor) expectations.

The holiday of Rosh Hashannah, spent with the Kabbalah Centre, was my first of, hopefully, many visits to the Holy Land. The incredible energy of this country is addictive and its beaches, exoticism and history, extremely inviting.

The 60th aniversary reportages raised questions about the ever-existing, always difficult and forever uncertain peace process in the region. And showed images of former wars, politicians, peace-makers, war-makers, terrorism.

Saddened by the rocky past of this nation but amazed by its prosperity and urge to hold on to its territory, I wish Israel much happier and peaceful 60 years ahead.