Liat Nosrati
A siren sounds and the people of Israel stop what they’re doing, pull over their cars and stand in silence for an entire minute; it’s the day before Israel’s Independence Day.According to the Western calendar that is used in the U.S., May 14 marks the 60th anniversary of Israel, when celebrations take place throughout the beautiful state. However, according to the Jewish calendar, by which all Jewish holidays are celebrated, May 8 is when the Independence Day celebration comes to life. But the day before is a somber day. It is a time when the people of Israel commemorate all the soldiers that have given their lives for their country – a day Americans would call Memorial Day. My sister Helen moved to Holon, Israel, just 15 minutes from Tel Aviv, five years ago. She loves living there and takes pride in the fact that ceremonies take place to help people remember the soldiers who protect Israelis on a daily basis. “Whether you have somebody who is in the Army or you don’t, this is a day when everyone comes together to remember all those soldiers who died for us,” she said. “They died to keep our country safe.”What most Americans know about Israel is just what the media want them to know. Yes, there is war in Israel, but the last thing Israelis will do is let that simple fact take over their lives. It wouldn’t be smart to blame Americans for thinking that Israel is a horrid desert area with bombs going off on every corner. This very picture is painted for them in newspapers and magazines everyday. But there is something more to Israel.Although I live in California, I visit my family in Israel very often. When visiting, I engage in the same sort of activities that I do when I’m at home in California. I use the Internet, shop at the mall and watch movies at the theater.I love the fact that I was born there, but there is stigma that comes with saying that you’re from Israel. Everyone has something to say about the Middle East and although it can be hurtful sometimes, I don’t take it to heart.On the eve of May 7, Israel’s Memorial Day came to an end. The celebration of Israel’s 60th birthday began with fireworks in every city, cotton candy, glow sticks and Silly String. Kids were allowed to stay out way past their bedtimes and all major streets were closed off, letting people roam around as they wish. Israel may be 60 years old, but they sure know how to party.