WEEKEND MEMOS

'Weekend memos' give our editorial writers a chance to express their own opinions, comment on topics they have been writing about, or take a lighter approach. The opinions in 'Memos' do not always follow the Enquirer's editorial positions.

There's rarely a day now without bloodshed in Israel. There are daily headlines about nations of the world debating Israel's fate. Still the 55th birthday of this tiny, remarkable country this month is cause to celebrate.

Here are several good reasons: Christians and Jews share an ancient biblical bond with the God of Israel. But for those who give no credence to this tie, America shares powerful secular and political DNA with Israel.

It's the only democracy and the strongest ally to the West in the Middle East. It is the only country there with open and fair elections, and education and science triumphs. These are things America treasures and defends.

What Israel has accomplished in 55 years mustn't get lost in the barrage of daily crisis journalism. David Harris of the American Jewish Committee and others remind us what's worthy of celebrating and remembering.

Israel is "the miracle of a decimated people" returning to a tiny sliver of land - the land of their ancestors - and "successfully building a modern, vibrant and democratic state, against all odds," he said. The state of Israel was established in 1948, carved from a desolate, unproductive piece of the desert. It was envisioned as a home and haven for Jews then scattered worldwide.

America's stand with Israel is vital to Israel's quest for peace and security. We are friends and I am proud we are. But even friends of Israel disagree on what the United States should do now to help peace.

Diplomacy alone won't do it. Fanatical terrorists aren't interested. We should know by now. As long as Palestinians who want peace do not banish the terrorists among them who want no Jewish state, Jewish people or Jewish religion to even exist, Israelis rightfully will feel compelled to defend themselves. If the United States can help grow and strengthen the forces of peace and tolerance among Palestinians, it could help drive out the terrorists. Until they're gone, peace seems impossible.

Meanwhile, in 55 years, Israel has taught us much about the essence of courage, resolve and hope.

Linda Cagnetti