November 2025

Most people don’t think about whether or not they should smile. It’s often more of a reflex. When a precious moment arises, a lovely compliment is given, a generous act is extended or even a wave of relief rushes over us, one of our automatic reactions is often a smile. Some of us smile more than others. It’s something we do on impulse.

The Ben Atars had been embarrassed time and again by the comments and shocked looks that their smiles elicited. And so they stopped entirely. Then there was the pain they experienced when eating. They had long since lost hope of a solution, after a quote from their local dental clinic to repair their teeth left them reeling. 

In the midst of this crushing reality, a miracle happened. David and his wife met Bridges for Peace. Thanks to the loving, unconditional gifts from Christians around the world, the Ben Atars’ dental nightmare came to an end—and their lives were transformed. For the first time in years, they could eat without pain. And to the couple’s utter delight, they were no longer embarrassed to express their inward joy with a beaming smile.

As the war against Hamas in Gaza drags on, the plight of the 48 hostages intensifies and Houthi missiles continue to rain down on Israel on a weekly basis, dental care can sound like a trivial matter—until it isn’t. Can you remember having a toothache? How about a gum infection? A problem with a single tooth can be totally debilitating. If neglected, a person can experience serious infection, sickness or worse. In Israel, national health insurance does not cover dental work, prescription medications or medical apparatuses such as wheelchairs.

Often, the needy, many of whom are immigrants, are forced to choose between vital health needs and food. Time of war only exacerbates this problem as trauma and loss ripple through the nation like a constant tremor. Sirens blare as incoming missiles are detected and nations around the world align themselves in twisted solidarity with Israel’s enemies. I bumped into my neighbor the other day who shook her head with an exasperated sigh. “Can you believe nations like Canada, France and the UK are recognizing Palestine?” she protested. “Rewarding terrorists! How can they do this?”

I reminded her that despite what nations do, God is still on the throne and in control. She touched her heart, thanked me through tears and smiled. Even during a war, Raquel, my neighbor, had the ability—and comfort—to smile. Research shows that smiling triggers the release of mood-boosting neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin and endorphins, while decreasing stress hormones such as cortisol. We all need a smile during these trying times. And yet, what about those who can’t?

Helen, an elderly Israeli who has no family in Israel to support her, recently had a dilapidating dental emergency—and no funds to pay for the treatment. But then Helen met Bridges for Peace, and another miracle happened, just like it did for the Ben Atars. Thanks to the loving, unconditional gifts from Christians around the world, we could cover the cost of Helen’s treatment, enabling her to smile again.

Another desperate plea for help came from an Israeli friend named Miki. His wife had suffered a stroke and required urgent, complex dental work to replace most of her teeth. Due to her medical condition, the procedure requires hospitalization with full anesthesia and emergency care close by. The treatment comes at a price tag of US $54,000. Thankfully, Miki’s insurance will cover more than half of the cost, but even the remaining US $17,000 is well beyond his abilities. The sadness was evident in his words as he thanked us for our time, compassion and support during the trying time for his family.