On Sunday morning, we packed our bags to head of to Tel-Aviv. But before leaving, we explored 2000 years of history inside the tunnels under the Western Wall. It's incredible to see that it is still around. We then stopped at the Kotel. For many of us who had never been to Israel, the Kotel brought on many tears at prayers. Once we arrived in Tel-Aviv, we spent lunch and some free time at Shuk HaCarmel where the group explored their surroundings. Afterwards, we went to BINA, a secular yeshiva where we learned about efforts to allow a unique place to learn about the Talmud and the Torah without being Orthodox. The yeshiva also opened our eyes to what was happening in South Tel-Aviv. Many new immigrants coming from surrounding countries had claimed refugee status but were put in an area of poverty. This side of Israel is hardly ever spoken of yet remains a huge problem. Also, the central bus station in the part of the city hides what is happening. Later on, we drove to Jaffa and ate supper at a restaurant which was run by the hearing impared called Merkaz Na Lagaat. This was such an incredible experience since we had a hard time communicating with the waiters and learned many new words in sign language.
Once supper was over, we headed down to the beach for an activity. We were split up into groups and had to debate the given topic. We learned that every type of Judaism expresses different beliefs and that others should not be forced to act based on one person's beliefs. At the end of the day, exhausted from the day's events, we had all been exposed to new ideas, beliefs, and experiences.
By: Hannah Evans
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