Camels, Plants and Vegi's
Blog - 7/2/2012
Today was an early day, we woke up at 7am and gathered together at 7:30 to ride the camels. We paired off in couples to ride the camels. We approached them two-by-two so not to scare them. It was important to sit on the camel at the same time with the partner, because once they feel weight they will get back up. The camels were divided into three groups tied to the one in front and led by a staff member from the Bedouin camp ground. It was exhilarating! We rode around the desert enjoying the scenery and experiencing the original form of transportation from our people!
After the camel ride, we hiked in Ein Ovdat, and we were asked to think about why the Torah was given to us in the desert as opposed to somewhere else. For many people, the desert brings up images of dry land, sand, and no green or vegetation. We were able to see how this is totally not the case. We enjoyed many plants, some edible, and found an oasis. There was a small waterfall and we saw the beautiful land and animals interacting in their own environment. The hike was fairly steep and took a lot of energy to climb up. Half way up the mountain we stopped in a cave that the Monks made and saw how they lived their lives. Climbing up the mountain looked similar to the Grand Canyon, but of course MUCH prettier!
We gathered back together to discuss the original question. We said that our people were given the Torah in the desert to test our perseverance and our ability to thrive in the tough conditions, as well as giving it to us in a place with little distractions.
After the hike, we went to see a farm and was taught about agriculture. It was shocking to see such a green area in a sandy desert. We were able to pick and eat many vegetables and plants such as carrots, beets, tomatoes, cucumbers and the second hottest chili in the world! Next, we ventured to the Gaza strip and learned about carrier pigeons and the history of the land. We went to see what the JNF made in a town the is often bombarded with missile attacks. It is an indoor play-ground a bomb perimeter play rooms that double as a bomb shelter.
Tonight we will stay at a hostel, and wake up early tomorrow morning to see the sunrise! Also, many of us have learned a lot about the fellow group members and today we learned about David Baker. His favorite colors are dark red and purple, and his favorite food is Thai/Chinese covered in sweet and sour sauce. He enjoys playing soccer as well as watching it. He has one cat and two tortoises. Tomorrow about 5 people will have a Bat/Bar Mitzvah on the top of Masada. It is sad to see the nights and the days shrinking down, but each day is a new experience filled with joy and happiness!
