LOVE ISRAEL✡
Shalom Good Folks!,
Today I made it back to the states after spending what could have easily been the best 10 days of my life. It is incredible to think that 10 days ago we were 48 strangers but with the course of time we became one. It didn't matter what color we were, the way we spoke, or the kind of car we drove. At the end of the day we were a loving family journeying the holy hand.
During the trip, we shared everything with each other and experienced things from as little as chatting over a cup of coffee to praying together in the Kotel. The moment that hit me most hit me was when we climbed Masada together and celebrated the Bar Miztvah of our brother Ryan Ben Percy Davis along with John and the three gals: Billie, Carmel, and Katie . This symbolized the maturity of our group while for them it was their change from children to adults. During the event, I never felt such a good feeling. It reminded me of the beauty of being Jewish.
Being back in America makes me realize how good our lives are compared to the Israelis with the biggest separation being serving for the Israeli Army after turning 18. If they were in America they couldn't even buy a drink at a bar but in the Israel they are treated as men that have to go to war and defend our country. Israelis are role models for all of us Jews around the world. They put their two cents for Israel and this raises the questions, "What do we do for Israel?." I light the Shabat candles with the family, fast on Yom Kipur, and fight against anti-semitism. We all need to give something and Israel and Judaism need it. The simple question, "What do you do for Israel?" is one that needs to be reminded to us every day.
It's early dawn in San Diego and I can't sleep, I get this feeling of emptiness. I talk to my friends and it doesn't feel the same. You guys are cooler. This trip has not only made me my love for Israel bigger but also taught me a lot as a person. It is stupid to be judgmental. This trip leaves me with memories that I will never forget: running around Tel-Aviv to dye Jason Sababa's hair, coughing my lungs out at the Beduin tent (aka social security hospital), and sharing unlimited laughs and smiles about life with you guys. I'm going to miss you all. LOVE ISRAEL very real.
Much love,
Ari Jogiel
Mexico City/San Diego, CA
