Thoughts can give life. Thoughts can kill.

For example, a soldier. The Torah commands a soldier at war, “Do not allow your heart to weaken. Do not fear. Do not panic.”

Imagine this: An army is racing towards you. Your eyes have witnessed their savagery. How can you command your heart not to fear?

Moses Maimonides explains: Don't think those thoughts and you will not fear. Dodge them as you dodge a flying arrow.

Because such thoughts threaten not only your life, they endanger the entire Jewish nation.

A soldier must think only one thought: What must I do right now?

Today, the entire Jewish people is under attack. Today, we are all soldiers.

Today, we need uplifting thoughts. We need more mitzvahs. We need love and respect for one another. Unity.

We don’t need disturbing images. Those are the bullets of the enemy, the weapons of terror, sadness, and darkness.

Instead, look at the images of the brave young people who are protecting us with gushing optimism and invincible courage.

And consider yourself a soldier like them. Ask yourself, “What am I needed for right now?”

“What mitzvah can I commit to? Whose life can I cheer up? Whose heart can I warm?”

Those are thoughts that save lives.

Those are deeds that save a nation.