Congratulations to Gilat Maatuf on receiving her get after an arduous and drawn-out journey!
Gilat, a client of Yad L’isha: The Monica Dennis Goldberg Legal Aid Center and Hotline received her get in the hours prior to Israeli Memorial Day — Yom Hazikaron — which preceded Yom Haatzmaut, Independence Day, by 24 hours.
“Today, after a long and drawn-out period, I finally received my freedom,” wrote Gilat. “This year, I will celebrate the country’s Independence Day together with my own personal independence; how symbolic this is for me!
I feel that I’ve been reborn; I believe that I can now turn over a new leaf.
True, I went through a difficult period, but – in retrospect – it was phenomenally empowering.
It was a period which opened my eyes and enabled me to learn a tremendous amount – especially about myself. I understood that I have incredible power of which I was previously unaware. I met special people – especially special women – who supported me throughout, and I experienced tremendous emotional growth.
So yes, without a doubt, I am still digesting this news and yes, at first I will tread hesitantly and not with firm steps; I will need to grow accustomed to this new status which I awaited with bated breath for years. But today I became free as a strong, independent and empowered woman who now possesses the skills and powers I will need to cope in the future.
And for that I say to the entire staff of Yad L’isha: Thank you – thank you – thank you!”