I am a quiet person usually I keep to myself when the 7th happened I had stopped in my tracks I remember where I was when I found out hell I even remember the exact time (3:43PM) the next weeks was spent in worry as I constantly texted my friends in Israel praying they were alright and staying on call for all hours when they were too scared to be alone I was scared to walk by the local shul for fear of being targeted and this fear continued for a long time but then something happened a friend had given me an old IDF jacket he found and something just clicked in me this coat had travelled over 5,000 miles to me and who knows what else it was worn by someone with pride who took the time to make sure it was kept safe I had realised that the person who first worn this jacket fought for my right to live and be who I am the world works in mysterious ways but deep down I know I was meant to own this coat and while this may among the most darkest moments in the 21st century this jacket gives me the courage to keep going although I am cautious where I wear it (it'd be a huge no no in NYC for example) I wear it with pride even if it gets me a look or two (forgive any typos its quite late and I am sleepy)