I have heard it countless times.

People tell me I am paid by CIDI. Others claim I am paid by Mossad. Every possible accusation has been thrown at me simply because I openly confess my love for Israel.

Many people cannot comprehend it. Most of them have never even been to Israel, let alone experienced the unique magic of the land.

If you look at it superficially, there is perhaps a grain of truth in what they say. After all, Israel is not always an easy country to love.

People can be rude in a very Middle Eastern way. Do not expect everyone to be on time. Do not be surprised if your appointment is hours late without the slightest apology. Do not expect people to patiently wait in line when it is busy. There is plenty of pushing, loud voices, and chaos.

The traffic is awful. Completely awful.

Perfectly normal Israelis can transform into traffic lunatics the moment they get behind the wheel. Shopkeepers are not always polite and smiling. Children are often treated like little kings and queens. Boundaries sometimes seem optional. Many are spoiled because, as people say, in a few years they will be in the army and life will become difficult enough.

At some level, I understand that reasoning, but is it wisdom? I honestly do not know.

And then there is the cost of living.

Add to that the endless discussions about politics, and you could easily conclude that you would have to be crazy to love this country.

I was always a different child. I saw more of the world than most children around me. I had a broad general knowledge, was highly sensitive, and possessed an enormous sense of........

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