So if it was not blatantly clear that we were in Israel it became clear yesterday. We visited the "Holy City" - Jerusalem. Having been there ten years ago with my family, you might think the experience would be less overwhelming or meaningful but that was not the case. The Western Wall, while in most people's opinion smaller in person, is still quite a sight and experience. Men and women were of course separated and we were given time to approach the Wall and in whatever way we felt comfortable pay our respects, so to speak. It is almost impossible there not to feel connected to being Jewish when you see people from all countries and walks of life gathering at a single place to pray, leave notes, or just touch the Wall. As if anything could live up to this experience, afterwards we headed to the open market. With the help of our Israeli haverim (friends) we had lunch and participated in a scavenger hunt of sorts. If this sounds exciting, you won't believe our evening. After a brief but touching Shabbat service and dinner we had what can only be called a sing-along battle. Men versus women with songs as diverse as Salam to Grease, Shalom Aleichem to Sir Mix-A-Lot. This evening proved that we are here for a religious experience, but that does not mean we can't show Israelis how to have a proper battle of the sexes in the Holy Land! Shalom for now.
Mindi Levitz, Washington, DC
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Friday, December 25, 2009
Winter Taglit-Birthright Israel: DC Community Trip Day 4
"Because it's bleepin' free!"
That's what he said, artist Udi Krauss. It's true: that's how we're here, but it's not why.
Our last day in the Golan Heights was activity-packed: after leaving the kibbutz we've called home for 3 days, we loaded ourselves and our luggage into our second home, the bus, and traveled to the Kinneret to spend time getting a sense of the individuals who gave birth to Eretz Israel: the pioneers. We sang emotional songs together, led by Oren's guitar, at the graves of Naomi Shemer and Rachel.
We then took the drive down to Tel Aviv, where we first stopped at the site of Yitzhak Rabin's assassination. Since most of us were too young and detached from Israel at that time, it was the first opportunity to make that event a real, tangible event. We then gathered at the top of the square to discuss that fateful day, the events and political climate that led up to it. Our Israelis shared their personal stories and feelings, and we closed with a meaningful read of Rabin's final speech.
What was supposed to be a short drive to the Independence Museum was slowed down by a painful pkak, so we all got off the bus to walk on the beach boardwalk and take beautiful sunset pictures. Ariel then told us a short story of Jaffa.
When we finally made it to Independence Museum, we saw a short video about Tel Aviv's history and the declaration. Our guide then took some time to describe in detail the events behind the historic event. After listening to 3 minutes of David Ben Gurion's original declaration of independence, both the Chicago group and our group stood for what turned out to be a very emotional rendition of Hatikva (the Israeli national anthem), to the track that played following the declaration. When Richard approached me and said what I had been thinking, my mind was blown away: we both sang Hatikva every day in school but it never felt as meaningful and connecting as it did at that moment, in that room, and with those people around us.
Finally we made it to the hotel and after dinner went for an activity with alumni from the Reverse Mifgash. We played an ice-breaker and they shared with us their favorite things about DC and their US experience. I was personally touched by 1Israeli, Uri Lerner, who mentioned how touched he was by OUR Judaism, OUR Judaism in the States. He said that we were free to practice a Judaism we were comfortable with, which was something he had never experienced here in Israel. What a mind-boggling comment!
Just when you'd think it was bedtime, we were treated to an interactive, educational and fun performance by Udi Krauss, who gave us insights into Israeli life, culture, and music. We closed with an awesome dancing and singing of Salam, with its uplifting lyrics that certainly brought us closer to what the Israeli reality is day to day, and how much we all just want peace. After some marshmallow puffs we were ready to join our Israelis, new and old, at Manda Rosa, where we had an hour and a half to disco disco!
Even though we may have at first been surrounded by sadness and painful memories of loss, we were at the end of the day reminded of what life is truly worth living for: doing, feeling, creating, pioneering. Ariel left us with an open question: what are we doing to be pioneers today? And while we may not get the opportunity to put our bare hands into the land and create a promised land like our ancestors did for us here, we can pioneer a new consciousness of our Judaism, a new relationship with our fellow Jews, our culture, our neighbors, our past, and our future.
Tanya Arditi, Washington, DC
That's what he said, artist Udi Krauss. It's true: that's how we're here, but it's not why.
Our last day in the Golan Heights was activity-packed: after leaving the kibbutz we've called home for 3 days, we loaded ourselves and our luggage into our second home, the bus, and traveled to the Kinneret to spend time getting a sense of the individuals who gave birth to Eretz Israel: the pioneers. We sang emotional songs together, led by Oren's guitar, at the graves of Naomi Shemer and Rachel.
We then took the drive down to Tel Aviv, where we first stopped at the site of Yitzhak Rabin's assassination. Since most of us were too young and detached from Israel at that time, it was the first opportunity to make that event a real, tangible event. We then gathered at the top of the square to discuss that fateful day, the events and political climate that led up to it. Our Israelis shared their personal stories and feelings, and we closed with a meaningful read of Rabin's final speech.
What was supposed to be a short drive to the Independence Museum was slowed down by a painful pkak, so we all got off the bus to walk on the beach boardwalk and take beautiful sunset pictures. Ariel then told us a short story of Jaffa.
When we finally made it to Independence Museum, we saw a short video about Tel Aviv's history and the declaration. Our guide then took some time to describe in detail the events behind the historic event. After listening to 3 minutes of David Ben Gurion's original declaration of independence, both the Chicago group and our group stood for what turned out to be a very emotional rendition of Hatikva (the Israeli national anthem), to the track that played following the declaration. When Richard approached me and said what I had been thinking, my mind was blown away: we both sang Hatikva every day in school but it never felt as meaningful and connecting as it did at that moment, in that room, and with those people around us.
Finally we made it to the hotel and after dinner went for an activity with alumni from the Reverse Mifgash. We played an ice-breaker and they shared with us their favorite things about DC and their US experience. I was personally touched by 1Israeli, Uri Lerner, who mentioned how touched he was by OUR Judaism, OUR Judaism in the States. He said that we were free to practice a Judaism we were comfortable with, which was something he had never experienced here in Israel. What a mind-boggling comment!
Just when you'd think it was bedtime, we were treated to an interactive, educational and fun performance by Udi Krauss, who gave us insights into Israeli life, culture, and music. We closed with an awesome dancing and singing of Salam, with its uplifting lyrics that certainly brought us closer to what the Israeli reality is day to day, and how much we all just want peace. After some marshmallow puffs we were ready to join our Israelis, new and old, at Manda Rosa, where we had an hour and a half to disco disco!
Even though we may have at first been surrounded by sadness and painful memories of loss, we were at the end of the day reminded of what life is truly worth living for: doing, feeling, creating, pioneering. Ariel left us with an open question: what are we doing to be pioneers today? And while we may not get the opportunity to put our bare hands into the land and create a promised land like our ancestors did for us here, we can pioneer a new consciousness of our Judaism, a new relationship with our fellow Jews, our culture, our neighbors, our past, and our future.
Tanya Arditi, Washington, DC
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Winter Taglit-Birthright Israel: DC Community Trip Day 3
In the afternoon, we made a four-hour stop in the city of Tzfat in Northern Israel. Tzfat is a mystical city that is home to Kaballah. The city is beautifully set in the mountains and has an abundance of art. We went inside two synagogues, one Sephhardic and one Ashkenazi. Avraham, the artist formerly known as Robert, hailing from Detroit, showed us his Kaballah-inspired studio, art, lifestyle and personality. Learning about the art and mysticism of Kaballah, walking the stone paved streets, and finagling for less expensive mezuzot completed the experience that was Tzfat.
Jennifer Higgins, New Orleans, LA/McLean, VA
__________________________________________________
Lifted Barriers
Barriers:
Obstacles blocking. Spurning.
Knowledge:
Merrily unlocking learning.
Yearning
To know.
Knowledge of ladders lifts your limbs.
Knowledge of floating fells your fall.
Knowledge of cultures connects newfound compatriots.
Knowledge of language frees tongues:
Ma'hamatzav, chaver?
I am excellent, friend.
Knowledge makes the then tall ledge now small.
Israel: barriers lay bare here.
Richard Schneider, Potomac, MD
Jennifer Higgins, New Orleans, LA/McLean, VA
__________________________________________________
Lifted Barriers
Barriers:
Obstacles blocking. Spurning.
Knowledge:
Merrily unlocking learning.
Yearning
To know.
Knowledge of ladders lifts your limbs.
Knowledge of floating fells your fall.
Knowledge of cultures connects newfound compatriots.
Knowledge of language frees tongues:
Ma'hamatzav, chaver?
I am excellent, friend.
Knowledge makes the then tall ledge now small.
Israel: barriers lay bare here.
Richard Schneider, Potomac, MD
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Winter Taglit-Birthright Israel: DC Community Trip Day 2
We spent our first full day in Israel in the Golan Heights. After spending the night at Kibbutz Gadot, we started the day with a hike through the Banias National Park, where we walked along a stream and saw a waterfall and an ancient temple. Next, we drove to the foothills of Mount Hermon. We saw the border with Syria and walked through bunkers from the '67 war. As the sun set, we visited a former Syrian army base and heard the story of the famous spy Eliyahu Cohen. In the evening, we went to a local bar and enjoyed singing some karaoke.
After struggling through a blizzard as we left Washington, we have been happy that the weather has been beautiful since we have been here. The sunny skies and 60 degree weather is perfect for sight seeing.
The landscape in the North is lush and green. On the border with Syria, we can see firsthand the security implications of the Golan Heights. From the top of the mountains we can see miles into Israel and Syria. A highlight of the day was listening to views about the future of this piece of land. Some thought it should be annexed by Israel and others suggested that it should be used to negotiate peace. Overall it was a great way to start our adventure in this complex and exciting country.
Pablo Kapusta, Washington, DC
After struggling through a blizzard as we left Washington, we have been happy that the weather has been beautiful since we have been here. The sunny skies and 60 degree weather is perfect for sight seeing.
The landscape in the North is lush and green. On the border with Syria, we can see firsthand the security implications of the Golan Heights. From the top of the mountains we can see miles into Israel and Syria. A highlight of the day was listening to views about the future of this piece of land. Some thought it should be annexed by Israel and others suggested that it should be used to negotiate peace. Overall it was a great way to start our adventure in this complex and exciting country.
Pablo Kapusta, Washington, DC
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Winter Taglit-Birthright Israel: DC Community Trip Day 1
Day one. The blizzard almost knocked us out. It swept into DC Friday night, closing roads and shutting down bus travel to New York. Alternative travel plans were hastily arranged and we met up at JFK International Airport as planned for an on time departure Sunday afternoon. Unfortunately, three of our trip mates didnt make it.
At the airport, we met our lovely American chaperones, Lani and Sarah. We held some icebreakers in the terminal as curious onlookers walked by. Spirits were high.
We flew to Israel by way of Frankfurt. 18 hours later, we touched down in Tel Aviv. At 68 degrees and a clear night --not a flake of snow -- we were happy.
We were shuttled to an olive grove on a hill overlooking Tel Aviv for a welcoming ceremony. There, Ariel, our dreadlocked Israeli chaperone explained to us that thousands of years ago, in that very place, Judah Maccabee and his gallant followers staged an insurrection against the Greek empire. We lit candles and talked about our hopes for the trip.
9 pm. We arrive at Kibbutz Gadot in the Golan Heights, a two hour busride from Tel Aviv. We are weary from travelling, but ecstatic at being in Israel and at having the opportunity to eat a decent meal after too much Lufthansa airline food. We were served a bountiful feast of chicken, meatballs, couscous, and, of course, hummus.
11pm. We were taken to our quarters, which were clean, and to the relief of all, had working showers. Tomorrow, we are off to the Golan for a day of hiking and frivolity.
Seth Engel, Washington, DC
At the airport, we met our lovely American chaperones, Lani and Sarah. We held some icebreakers in the terminal as curious onlookers walked by. Spirits were high.
We flew to Israel by way of Frankfurt. 18 hours later, we touched down in Tel Aviv. At 68 degrees and a clear night --not a flake of snow -- we were happy.
We were shuttled to an olive grove on a hill overlooking Tel Aviv for a welcoming ceremony. There, Ariel, our dreadlocked Israeli chaperone explained to us that thousands of years ago, in that very place, Judah Maccabee and his gallant followers staged an insurrection against the Greek empire. We lit candles and talked about our hopes for the trip.
9 pm. We arrive at Kibbutz Gadot in the Golan Heights, a two hour busride from Tel Aviv. We are weary from travelling, but ecstatic at being in Israel and at having the opportunity to eat a decent meal after too much Lufthansa airline food. We were served a bountiful feast of chicken, meatballs, couscous, and, of course, hummus.
11pm. We were taken to our quarters, which were clean, and to the relief of all, had working showers. Tomorrow, we are off to the Golan for a day of hiking and frivolity.
Seth Engel, Washington, DC
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Reverse Mifgash 2009: Day 2
Monday, November 2
By Karen Slachetka
On Monday night I had the opportunity to participate in a volunteer event with our visiting Israelis. It was great to learn with the Israelis about how extremely active the Washington, DC Jewish Community Center is in the area of community service. Our efforts for the evening aimed to support local after-school programs and food banks, providing food and toiletries to the needy in Washington, DC. The kitchen team, of which I was a member, had a great time making tomato salad, peanut butter sandwiches and bag lunches. It seemed like such minor things, but showing the Israelis how to make a peanut butter sandwich for the first time, hearing about their day, playing games or trying to sing songs to pass the time really made for a memorable experience.
By Karen Slachetka
On Monday night I had the opportunity to participate in a volunteer event with our visiting Israelis. It was great to learn with the Israelis about how extremely active the Washington, DC Jewish Community Center is in the area of community service. Our efforts for the evening aimed to support local after-school programs and food banks, providing food and toiletries to the needy in Washington, DC. The kitchen team, of which I was a member, had a great time making tomato salad, peanut butter sandwiches and bag lunches. It seemed like such minor things, but showing the Israelis how to make a peanut butter sandwich for the first time, hearing about their day, playing games or trying to sing songs to pass the time really made for a memorable experience.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Reverse Mifgash 2009: Day 1
Sunday, November 1
By Yelena Barakh
It was really rewarding to see the Israelis on Sunday night. There was a sense of "Wow, they are here!" After a year of planning, fundraising and talking about their arrival and everything we wanted them to get out of the experience, it was here! I got the feeling that they were all very different, yet had common ground, similar to the members of the young D.C. Jewish community. I'm hoping this is an amazing 10 days for all of us!
By Yelena Barakh
It was really rewarding to see the Israelis on Sunday night. There was a sense of "Wow, they are here!" After a year of planning, fundraising and talking about their arrival and everything we wanted them to get out of the experience, it was here! I got the feeling that they were all very different, yet had common ground, similar to the members of the young D.C. Jewish community. I'm hoping this is an amazing 10 days for all of us!
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