Day 2

While learning about Jewish mysticism and Kabbalah in the holy city of Tzfat, our Israeli staff member Yossi told us,"You will only be able to fully embrace and understand Jewish mysticism if you are grounded and prepared for the wisdom that it imparts." It was in this spirit that I, and the rest of the group, began our Saturday Shabbat.

We fully embraced this day of rest by waking up at the late hour of eleven, some enjoying a light breakfast while others slept through until our noon meeting. After our brief meeting, we continued on to a Kiddish lunch and the day's activities. After lunch and the Kiddush prayers, Yossi led a small group around our kibbutz to show us the community, and to tell us about the history and evolution of the kibbutz in Israel.

As the day progressed, we relaxed at the pool, played basketball, and rested. Later on, I led a small group and taught yoga. Everyone continued to relax, as we lounged around the kibbutz courtyard. As night approached, we began a group activity and all shared our own personal Shabbat practices. We then completed Shabbat by celebrating Havdallah and getting on the bus.

We are currently on the bus to Tel Aviv. I hope that today's day of rest will allow all of us to be ready for our next week in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and more!

Photo credit: @Rockonmyfriend (header), @shoval_9,