Question
I am a canadian in college in America. I was learning in Israel for 2 and 3/4 years and I fell in love with the land. I wanted to stay but my parents said I can't and I have to come back and get a degree etc..... I will get my degree by the end of the year and I want to know:
Should I go to Israel after and go to the army or should I obey my parents and stay in Canada and work for a bit and then decide? My parents also have a real hard time with the ’danger’ let alone doing the army. Should I do the army anyways?
Answer
I can answer you only in general terms since I am not familiar with your particular situation (are your parents in need of medical or geriatric care that only you can provide etc.?) In principle, the Mitzva of Aliya to the Land of Israel takes precedence over parental concerns.
You must be aware of the fact that all Israeli parents are worried about the security situation as it effects their sons and daughters. As a suggestion- why not come to Israel first and put off IDF service for a while until you adjust to the country. This might allow your parents also to ajust to a new reality, one step at a time.
I wish you a successful Aliya that enables you to maintain good ties with your parents while maximizing your contribution to Am Yisrael.
