Steve Ornstein: A Hugger in a Hard World
Baring It All: Reflections on a World in Turmoil and a Life Well-Lived
Here I am, baring it all. I’m not sure it’s entirely appropriate to post this on IsraelSeen, but as the world teeters on the edge of insanity—with so-called leaders of free countries and dictatorships alike threatening violence—I can’t help but wonder: Is this where we’ve ended up after so many advancements that have improved life for most people?
In the democratic states of the West—Europe, the Americas, a few in Asia, and even parts of the Middle East—we still can’t find it in our hearts to help those in need. Why is it so important to hoard as much money as possible, by any means necessary, while forgetting those who desperately require our support?
We expect people to serve in our military, only to discard them like human rubbish once they’re released. Exploitation of one another has been a grim human reality for far too long. When will we finally address it?
These are just a few questions I’ve been pondering lately. When I meet weekly with my friends for open discussions, the ability to truly listen—especially when someone disagrees—is often dismissed as stupid, idiotic, or just plain ignorant and uneducated. And these are highly educated people I’m talking about. It doesn’t surprise me, given their intellectual prowess, which could dazzle any average person. But the real disappointment lies in how little we’re willing—or able—to see the full story. We cherry-pick the parts that bolster our views and fuel our self-righteous sense of caring for the world, all while going about our daily lives.
Personal Reflections Amid Change. As someone who makes every effort to care for myself—through exercise, healthy eating, ample sleep, and keeping my spiritual and religious life fresh and alive—I’ve found these habits deeply ingrained. Yet, with age comes unexpected physical and spiritual challenges that do need to be addressed through adaptation and new experiences.
While most of my closest friends have departed this world, it has left a profound loneliness that I’m grappling with, without clear solutions. My family—the three amazing children Liz and I raised, who have grown into fantastic humans with kids of their own—has been a cornerstone of what makes life worthwhile. Watching them thrive and engaging with my grandchildren brings immense blessings.
When Liz passed almost six years ago in my arms, the deepest friendship and love I’d known slowly faded with her final breath. Though it was a moment of grace and peace, the 48 years we shared—nearly everything together—ended abruptly. If not for my close family ties, I could see myself retreating to some quiet mountain spot to simply be.
I love being with people and sharing the love I’ve been blessed with. I miss those rare, special relationships where words become almost unnecessary—an excuse just to be together.
Finding Home and Gratitude
So, I write this from the place on this globe that I call home. For me, home isn’t just a word; it’s a blessing, imperfections and all—a space that elevates humankind through actions and spirit.
I’m a hugger and a lover of people, but it’s often hard to express that emotion when friends view it through an intellectual, elitist lens. I understand that world, but I refuse to live in it at the expense of my heart and soul.
At this juncture in my life, as the rains bless the country, I have much to be thankful for. Yet, there’s a deep inner place that still needs mending. As I age, the so-called “end” no longer fills me with fear—it’s simply a continuation of the present. Sometimes, I feel my family is the main reason to continue here. But another part of me knows every moment on this earth is a divine blessing.
Addressing the Hatred
To close, I must confront the open hatred of Jews globally. In times of chaos, Jews once again become the scapegoats for everything people hate or envy. Now, both the political right and left unite in trashing Jews—verbally and physically—with few repercussions.
Israel is my home, the place for Jews to return and live fully. We are here for you. It’s not easy to change—I know this personally—but it’s a choice that will transform your life and your children’s for the better.
