One of the most exciting moments during my journalistic career came as a complete surprise.
On the eve of the last Independence Day, I decided to go to the center of Jerusalem, which I love with all my heart, and join the happy celebrants.
It was not easy for me to find parking in the city center, but I insisted and made my way on foot to the Nahalat Shiva area.
The magical evening with the Pollards on Independence Day in the capital // Photo: Yuri Yalon
An inexplicable force drew me into the alleys towards Music Square.
Happy music and singing brought me closer to one of the local restaurants.
I went in and could not believe my eyes.
In front of me sat Jonathan and Esther Pollard singing "Jerusalem of Gold" with glued eyes.
After overcoming the initial shock I hurried to document what was happening.
The public who were there wrapped the Pollard couple in great love and Jonathan Pollard waved a small Israeli flag and kissed it.
I went to Pollard and he said to me: 'That is why I struggled, to be here in our country with our people.
I'm so happy to be here with my wife. '
Esther looked at Jonathan with a proud look as she sang loudly.
For many years I covered the struggle for Pollard's release from American prison, which sometimes seemed hopeless.
Throughout that time I was accompanied by the face full of pain and sorrow of Esther, who fought and dreamed of Pollard's release.
I will never forget the happiness in her eyes and the loving and enveloping looks she gave her husband that Independence Day Eve after she managed at the end of a long and torturous struggle to bring about his release and immigrate to Israel with Jonathan.
This week Esther passed away after an exhausting battle with a serious illness.
I came to comfort Jonathan.
We had a long conversation about the virtues of dear Esther, whose determination and faith led them both to emerge from exile and settle in Israel.
I reminded him of that magical evening in the heart of Jerusalem and he said to me with teary eyes: 'Everyone thought it was planned, but we also had a hard time finding parking.
Eventually, we got there and you too were in the place and then you filmed this movie.
In the last months when Esther was sick she has seen this movie of yours over and over again.
It made her so happy and gave her renewed mental strength.
Thank you for being God's messenger on this Independence Day.
It was not a coincidence. '
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