Bus 109 and I visited Yad Vashem (The Holocaust Museum) as well as David Ben Gurion's tomb (first prime minister of Israel) today. Although this was not my first time at the endlessly powerful Yad Vashem, experiencing it with my newfound best friends (both American and Israeli) weighed me down in a way IÂ never thought was possible.
We touched the same wall our ancestors had practiced their faith and where the Jewish people will still continue to exercise their religious freedom. Some felt a connection and some did not, but either way it will be one of the memorable experiences collected on the Birthright trip.Â
Hearing the Hatikvah, Israel's national anthem, in the same room where David Ben Gurion announced the formation of the Jewish homeland, was very spiritual.Â
We finished the night with a talent show organized and hosted almost entirely by two motivated trip participants. There were a range of talents, including performance art, lip syncing, dancing, acrobatics, and our tour guide Neta playing "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star" entirely by bopping his hand on the top of his head.
Our first Shabbat on the trip began with discussions based upon identity and Judaism.
Arriving after a long day of traveling, we finally arrived at the kibbutz safely. We scarfed down a delicious dinner and then rang in the New Year at the local bar!
Get ready for an amazing adventure! #Birthright #Shorashim
*All pictures are either from your staff’s first trip to Israel, in general or as a staff person, or one of their favorite places*