One thing does stand out though - as perhaps a bit naive, a bit too rose-colored - and that is his assessment of the Israeli economy.

While it is the case that many in Israel do enjoy a much better finanical situation than they did in the early years of the state, five bedroom homes in Rishon Letzion or Ramat Aviv are the exception, not the rule.

Outside of those who suffer glaring poverty, there are also those who live on moderate to good salaries who find it hard to live the dream Bernstein so beautifully paints. In cities like Tel Aviv, where the housing market is being overtaken by wealthy diaspora Jews, ordinary Israelis feel shut out.

Perhaps the best way to celebrate Israel is to also note that its people, like any other nation, are rich and poor, good and bad, and everywhere in between.

Accuracy in reporting also has its virtues.