SH-26-131's blog

We spent the morning yesterday in Rabin Square in Tel Aviv where we had the opportunity to speak with locals about their memories of the day Yitzhak Rabin was assassinated. Hearing different opinions of real citizens opened our eyes to the larger issues in the country on the road to peace. After Rabin Square we had a beautiful walking tour of the ancient port city of Jaffa, where we had time to eat falafel, check out the clear blue water, and learn to bargain in the flea market.

After our first few action packed touring days, a relaxing shabbat in Jerusalem was rejuvenating and inspiring for all of us. We were welcomed to Jerusalem with a historical walk through the Jewish Quarter of the Old City and the Kotel (Western Wall). As the sun began to set we lit Shabbat candles are began Shabbat with a special Shorashim tradition where each male participant presented a female participant with a rose. Follwoing the roses, we had a Kaballat Shabbat service, as well as a conversation about how we each celebrate shabbat at home.

We started off our third day with a beautiful and spiritual morning in Tzfat. Filled with ancient history, beautiful synagogues, and art galleries, we were spiritually inspired. Here are some thoughts from members of our group on spirituality:

"Spirituality is the belief in a higher power, or some connection to the universe - seeing the big picture."

Hard to believe we have been here for over 24 hours now. Here are some of our reflections on our first impression of Israel:

" Hot, Hilly, Hopeful"

"Where are the clouds at? The near infinite visibility is wicked awesome!"

"First impression of Israel is hot, vast, beautiful. The Israelies that have joined us have begun to open my eyes to the Land of Israel's true beauty"

'Hot. Less arid than I anticipated. Why does everyone speak English???"

"Israel is so green. Amazing how much larger the country is than everyone described."