I just finished my first week in Israel. I was jet lagged and SO looking forward to sleeping in…after all, it was Saturday. Shabbat. Shmini Atzeret. Simchat Torah.

But no. This morning, I awoke to sirens. I am fine physically, standing in stairwells of my hotel when necessary. Mentally, I am worried about my Israeli family, colleagues, and friends around the country — for my nephew and the IDF troops — and for clients who are about to arrive. This situation feels eerily familiar, yet very different. All we can do is pray and stay strong . We don’t really know what’s going on.

A Prayer for the State of Israel :

God in Heaven, Rock and Redeemer of the people Israel: Bless the State of Israel, with its promise of redemption. Shield it with Your love; spread over it the shelter of Your peace. Guide its leaders and advisors with Your light and Your truth. Help them with Your good counsel. Strengthen the hands of those who defend our Holy Land. Deliver them; crown their efforts with triumph. Bless the land with peace, and its inhabitants with lasting joy. And let us say: Amen.

Other than 6 visits to the shelter and a 10-minute visit to the dining room to grab lunch, I haven’t left my hotel room. I took the fastest shower ever. I didn’t blow-dry my hair for fear of not hearing a siren. I’m glued to the TV and am online communicating with family, friends, and clients. Nothing about today is in my comfort zone.

Both of my sisters live here. They keep checking on me. They are safe and with their families. We’re hanging in there.

Over 250 innocent, unprepared citizens were murdered today. Over 1,500 are injured. Others have been kidnapped and are missing. This is a new level of terror and nightmares.

Worldwide prayers and support matter. Once and for all, I hope it’s clear who the bad guys are.