Not only is Sid Golden the official Beit Halochem Group Visit photographer, documenting many events enjoyed by our Israeli veterans during their Toronto visit, he also writes beautifully. Sid penned “The Visit” to commemorate the experience, reading the poem during the Closing Night event. All present were moved, grateful that Sid was able to skillfully put into words what so many of us – visitors and Torontonians, alike – were feeling. It was a special moment.
Photos © Sid Golden
“The Visit” by Sid Golden
You came as Veterans of Israel
Heroes-
If time were measured in heartbeats
We became friends
In an instant
We shared your hopes
Your intimate dreams
Shared your personal battles
Far from the fields of war.
And now
As you prepare to return
Return to our beloved Israel
We want you to know
That a part of you remains behind
Locked in our hearts forever.
You came as our Veterans
You leave as our family
L’hit-ra–ot
And may G-d be with you.