Final Thoughts from Gabi Aladjem

Looking back on this trip, a few key things stand out to me. First, how much closer we have all gotten as a group. It sounds cheesy, but it's true. During our rough hikes and longs days in the sun, we all learned to encourage each other. On our hardest hike, the Snapir, while we were literally rock climbing up a cliff, we cheered each other on until we all of us finally made it to the top. All of us shared the same feelings of triumph and exhaustion. Activities like this gave us shared experiences that we will remember far into the future.

Second, we all gained a newfound appreciation for other cultures and differing worldviews. By the city of Yeruham, we visited a Bedouin woman in her village as well as the home of a Mizrachi Jewןsh woman, both of whom welcomed us in warmly and patiently answered our questions. I personally learned a lot about cultures that I previously knew very little about. In our visits to synagogues, we were exposed to unfamiliar Jewish traditions. It reminded me of the diversity of Judaism and the Jewish people, which many of us often forget. We also had many discussions about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. I am grateful to our guide, Ilan, for allowing us to have engaging discussions that presented many sides of the issue. I think by the end of the trip, we can all truly appreciate the plurality of cultures, religions, and political views that are are present in Israel.

Our group at the old port of the
beautiful Caesaria National Park

Finally, we got to experience Israel’s natural beauty. I had never been in a desert, so our time in the Negev, which included hiking and stargazing, had a huge impression on me. We all marveled at the wonders that are the Dead Sea and Makhtesh Ramon. The views of the Kinneret from the mountains were astonishing. I will carry my new appreciation of nature with me, as I know others will too.

Gabi Aladjem

Bus

Route 6, Israel