We exited Yad Vashem to the most beautiful and peaceful view of a sunny day in Jerusalem. We were able to enjoy what our people and family will never be able to enjoy. As I looked around, I was comforted by our tight knit group of Americans and Israelis.
Finally, we got to go to the Western Wall. Since this is my first time in Israel, I have been looking forward to coming to the Western Wall for the entire trip. While writing my prayer, I became emotional while thinking about the things that meant the most to me in my life. I realized how lucky I am to be able to come to Israel and pray at the Western Wall, and I hope that my children and their children have that same opportunity.
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.
After touring the independence museum we left to go to a market in Tel Aviv. There was some impressive original art and interesting scents filled the air. I was able to buy a beautiful menorah for my parents (hi mom!) and had my first semi-successful experience trying to bargain for a fair price.From the market we left for a walking tour of the very historical Jaffa by our amazingly informed tour guide, Omer. Jaffa was a beautiful coastal port and had significance to many cultures and societies throughout history. To any one reading this blog planning on traveling to Jaffa, do yourself a favor and go to Dr. Shakshuka for lunch.
We visited the old city and saw many historical sites. We saw the orthodox praying and dancing in King David's Tomb and stuck notes in the Western Wall where some people also wrapped tefillin.
Today, after spending the morning in Tel Aviv, and visiting Shuk HaCarmel (Carmel Market), we drove to Jerusalem to see the historic Old City, which was the highlight of the trip for me so far. As someone who regularly prays for the reconstruction of this Holy City, it was amazing to be back after four years away. We started our tour at a lookout, with those who had been before leading those who hadn't to a shocking and stunning first view of the walls.
I must say that today, our fifth day, was probably my favorite so far.
What an amazing few days we have had. We spent Shabbat in the holy city of Jerusalem. Before bringing in Shabbat, we toured the old city and visited the Kotel (Western Wall). It was a moving experience and we all had a chance to connect to our spirituality and our heritage.
I could practically feel the history radiating out of the stones as Ido led us through the streets, some of which were thousands of years old (and some somewhat-recently refurbished).
Overall, Shabbat was a much needed relaxing day for us. We got a chance to connect on a more personal level with one another as well as discuss some very interesting topics. We hope you all had a refreshing Shabbat as well!