As humans, we all crave happiness, hoping for things to unfold as we envision. But this past week reminded me that life often asks us to hold both happiness and sadness side by side. Not in opposition, but together, as equal companions in our journey.

I traveled to Israel for my son’s wedding, a moment of pure joy as I watched him become a man, and in love. The celebration was filled with family and friends, many who traveled distances and through obstacles to gather in Jerusalem. The air was full of so much love.

But intertwined with that joy were moments of deep sadness. I visited a cousin battling Leukemia, too weak to join us. I spent time with a dear friend, recently diagnosed with terminal cancer. And in the background, the political tensions in Israel, a constant reminder of the fragility we live with.

Yet, Jerusalem, a city of ancient wonder, where three religions converge, holds a magic all its own. It whispers a truth: unity is possible.

As women, we know this intimately. We know how to hold our families, our friends, and ourselves together, even when life feels uncertain. We honor all that comes our way, treating it with respect and fullness, because this is our life. Both the light and the dark are part of our journey.

Let us continue to walk it, embracing the unexpected with open hearts and open minds.

Happy Tuesday,
Yael Edelist, President, Alembika USA