In English, there is only one word for be.
In Spanish, the word for be changes depending on whether the state of being is permanent (ser) or temporary (estar). We always stay who we are at the core, but change positions, locations, conditions, and emotions.
In Hebrew, there is no word for be in the present tense. We are automatically assumed to be present, to be here. Our state of being there for translates to who we are: Ani Lauren -- I am Lauren. Anachnu chaverim -- we are friends. We don't need to add a verb to be these things -- we just are.
The Hebrew verb "L'hiyot" can be conjugated in the past and future tenses. To quote from Israeli songs, "Hayu Leilot" -- there were nights (by Mordechai Zeira) and "Yiyeh tov" -- it will be good (by David Broza).
By learning from Hebrew and Spanish, we can practice the art of being present, accepting who we are, and knowing that life can change as a moment's notice.
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