Yad Vashem

Yesterday we went to Yad Vashem (the Holocaust remembrance memorial of Jerusalem). The night before our visit, we met together as a group in a modest little room at the hotel we stayed in. The group split into four smaller groups, providing for an intimate setting to discuss with no pressure or judgment. Several cards with different emotional thoughts were scattered in the middle of the four groups and the groups were asked to pick and discuss the different emotions as they relate to The Holocaust. In one group, the conversation ranged from stories about family members, how it affected the individual group members, the ongoing concerns of modern genocides, and even sympathy for the new generations of Germans who have to deal with the burden of their ancestors actions. All-in-all, it was a well versed interaction and a most successful group discussion. Bonds have been created within the group centered around respect, creating a level plain of trust among them.

The Israelis on our trip are the catalyst; pulling the individual groups together into more in-depth conversation. Everyone feels very fortunate to have them on our trip as they have been great facilitators of thought provoking conversations. Each bring a unique perspective to our conversations and are more than willing to answer any questions we have posed.

-Eli