Recently took part in an amazing 10-day trip to Israel through Birthright. In addition to eating enough falafel and Rugalah to last a lifetime, trip highlights included…
* Hiking to the top of Masada in time to watch the sunrise, and then teaching a yoga class at the top!
* Floating in the Dead Sea…
* And then getting covered head to toe in mud!
* Lots of quality time with my baby sister ☺
* Sipping freshly squeezed fruit juice…so yummy!
* Riding a (blonde!) camel through the Negev Desert (Linds and I named her Lady)
* Wandering through the charming cobblestone streets of Svat, where the roots of Kabala and Jewish mysticism can be found
* Celebrating Shabbat!
* Savoring all the colorful produce and spices in Jerusalem’s food markets
Taking part in a community service activity with adorable Israeli schoolchildren
* Making a wonderful new group of friends, most of whom live in the DC area!
I think the biggest highlight of the trip, however, is deeper connection I now feel to my Jewish identity (yes, I drank the Koolaid!). But in all seriousness, learning about Israeli history and politics, visiting important historical sites, getting to know Israeli soldiers on a personal level, and spending time with 38 Jewish peers created a rich, wonderful and multilayered experience for which I’m extremely grateful.
