Washington D.C. Community Trip - Blog 5

So if it was not blatantly clear that we were in Israel it became clear yesterday. We visited the holy city- Jerusalem. Having been there ten years ago with my family-you might tihnk the experience would be less overwhelming or meaningful- but that was not the case. The Western Wall- while in most people's opinion was smaller in person, is still quite a sight and experience. Men and women were, of course, separated and we were given time to approach the wall and in whatever way we felt comfortable to pay our respects, so to speak. It is almost impossible there not to feel connected to being Jewish when you see people from all countries and walks of life gathering at a single place to pray, leave notes, or just touch the wall.

As if anything could live up to this experience, afterwards we headed to the open market. With the help of our Israeli Chaverim [friends], we had lunch and participated in a scavenger hunt of sorts. If this sounds exciting, you won't believe our evening. After a brief but touching Shabbat service and dinner we had what can only be called a sing along battle. Men versus women, songs as diverse as Salam to grease, Shalom Alechem to Sir Mixalot. This evening proved that we are here for a religious experience, but that does not mean we can't show Israelis how to have a proper "battle of the sexes" in the holy land!

Shalom for now.

Mindi Levitz (Mindela)