TL-46-337 Update 2
Shalom from Tel Aviv
We journeyed from the North to Jerusalem. On our way, we met with the leader of the Druze community who had an incredible outlook on life and how the only way we will have peace will be by living together with mutual respect. While we may not agree with each other’s religious philosophies we are human at our core and need to work to live side by side. His words resonated with everyone in the group as we grapple with the rise of hate and violence in the United States. From there we went to Tzfat where we learned about Jewish mysticism and had an incredible tour of an Ethiopian Absorption Center that is funded in part by UJA. At the Absorption Center, our group got to learn about the journey of Ethiopian Jews and how some families had to wait twenty years to get on a flight to Israel and be reunited with their families. Our participants had a chance to play with the children and make arts and crafts projects with them. We all were teaching each other Hebrew and English while also connecting through the unspoken connection of laughs and hugs. In the end, there were a lot of tears on both sides as this was one of the most meaningful experiences for everyone on this trip.
The following day we went on a wine tour in the North and spent time at Hadera Beach before heading to Jerusalem. After changing hotels our trip was back on track. We went with the Israelis to the Jewish Quarter, spent time at the Wall, and ended our day at Machane Yehuda where our participants had a chance to shop, eat and explore. They got to see the hustle and bustle of the shuk as everyone was preparing for Shabbat. We then had a beautiful Shabbat at the hotel and explained the significance of Shabbat and the roles we all play in the tradition. That evening we reflected on our day and everyone shared their emotional/ personal experience going to The Wall. It was one of the most vulnerable and heartwarming experiences that truly brought the group closer together.
Our group had a great time in the Bedouin tent and we did an activity under the stars where we let everyone have ten minutes to reflect on the trip and their personal growth over the last week. It was a powerful night full of laughs and tears, this group is leaning into every experience and it’s moving to see the transformations happening in such a short period of time.
We woke up early to climb Masada and swim in the Dead Sea a bucket list item for many on our trip!
Yesterday we had an amazing morning and afternoon at Yerucham where we made crafts and had lunch which was prepared by a local woman.
Can’t wait to share our experience in TLV with all of you soon!
All the best, Amanda and Eliana