This day revolved around the theme of darkness and light. We began with memorials for those who lost their lives in our history and brought our country to where it is today. Then we experienced the "light" of the flourishing Jewish life in Israel by being a part of the pre-shabbat rush at the Machane Yehuda shuk, and then kabbalat shabbat at the Kotel. We enjoyed our shabbat dinner with a few other cohorts, then we walked over 7KM back to our hostel, and even though it was exhausting, we felt like we were a part of Jerusalem's culture.
Going to a Modern Orthodox Zionist school for 14 years, I've always been surrounded with Israeli people, culture, education, a love for the land, etc..; but I never actually had a chance to visit the country and nothing compares to actually being here. Getting to actually see and visit all these places in real life that up until now I've only ever dreamed of seeing in person, has been so unreal.
At the kotel, it was amazing to see everyone come together and dance and sing in unison. Everyone has their own stories, a reason that they're here, we're all from different countries, cultures, have different backgrounds, yet we're all connected by a mutual bond, our Jewish faith. We all came together and became one and I've never felt such an overwhelming feeling of unity before especially being in the holiest place in the world for our religion.
Leah Bessner
Lovely entry, Leah. There are no words to describe the feeling of being before the Wall with so many others that are feeling the same thing as you are. The bustle of jerusalem, and all Machne Yehuda has to offer is special all on it's own. Glad you are enjoying your time in Israel. Go. Take on the world, my engaging daughter. Love you, WOW.
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