Returning home after parting from my father

(JNS) — I land at Ben-Gurion International Airport after a week in New York that feels like a lifetime. The wheels hit the tarmac with a dull thud that spurs customary applause from passengers. They’re either relieved after the long journey or clapping for arriving in the Jewish state.

Before passengers are permitted to unbuckle, the pilot takes to the loudspeaker.

“Welcome home,” he says in Hebrew, proceeding to highlight the bravery of the Israel Defense Forces and express hope for the swift return of the body of Ran Gvili, the last remaining hostage held by Hamas in Gaza.

His tone is steady...