There’s nothing fancy about this picture, but oh does it tell a story. It tells a story of a simple, yet great man’s love for Israel and so much more.

This is my father in law. He is one of the most amazing people I have encountered in my lifetime. He is the most simple person, as far removed from materialism as you can imagine. He wants for nothing, other than sitting and learning the Torah every day. He is 84 years old.

Last year, during the height of Corona, he was kept safe in his house for months on end, not going anywhere. I spoke to him about how he was doing, physically and mentally. Was he lonely? He responded to me with such sincerity. “I am so grateful for all these extra hours! I am learning so much, more than I was ever able to before! And as far as being lonely, of course I’m not! I have the Rashi, Rambam, etc, all sitting with me at my table while I learn”.

Back to the story of this picture.

11 years ago, I was planning a surprise trip to Israel for my husband. It was our 20th anniversary. I was so looking forward to it. About a month before we were to leave, I had a brainstorm. Why not take my father in law on this long awaited 20th anniversary trip to Israel?

I know you’re probably thinking right about now that I’m crazy. Read on please.

My mother in law had Parkinson’s unfortunately for 25 years. My father in law took care of her every day, with the help of a wonderful aide. He desperately needed a respite, and while he loved Israel so much, he hadn’t been there in about 30 years.

This idea came into my head in the middle of the night, and right away I loved the idea, yet hated the idea. This was supposed to be our 20th anniversary trip. Who takes a father in law on a trip like that?

But like I have mentioned previously, when I get these ideas in my head, I need to act on them.

So I did. We took my father in law along, and he had the most special trip ever. He always tells me how he’ll never forget it.

This picture was taken on that trip.

I always tell my classes, that the best photographs are the ones that tell a story. Like this one .

If you have a photo that is meaningful, and dear to you, that you feel tells a story, please email it to me at pixbydevorie@gmail.com.

I'd love to hear YOUR story.