A Lesson in Mortality

Whatever our political persuasions, on a day like this we should all pray for Ariel Sharon's speedy recovery. On a day like this we should also pray that - like most patients who have had a close call - Sharon will take life more seriously and not take his health for granted. On a day like this we should also hope he includes the country in those same sentiments and does not also take Israel's security and survival for granted. For today we saw the first serious Kassam attack launched from territory Sharon surrendered in Gaza. Launched from the former settlement of Dugit, the missile landed in an industrial zone just south of Ashkelon. It could just as easily have hit the major power, oil and desalination plants in Ashkelon proper, or even worse a school or residential area.

One hopes the twin shocks of the day will inspire some deep reflection by the old man. That life is precious and not to be taken for granted. As is our state of Israel.

But the therapy will be very different.

Sharon's survival depends on treatment which will thin his blood.

Israel's survival depends on treatment which will thicken its borders.