As I sit here reflecting on the past 10 days, I am overwhelmed with emotions. Mainly- the intense desire to hop back on a plane with all of you and head back to Israel. We can all just drop our lives here, pack up, and make Aliyah, right?
No but seriously, there is nothing I wanted to do less than get off that plane home, which is saying a lot because we were sitting on it for about 12 hours. It's not that I don't love America and the people here, but after spending time in Israel, I have a different perspective. I don't want to be surrounded by the constant technology, greasy fast food, and money-hungry complainers that are so apparent here. Of course, those things all exist in Israel, but they are just not the main focus. Yes, Israelis can be outwardly rude, like their stereotype, but on the inside they have the best intentions.
In Israel, and Judaism in general, life is about living in the moment: Tikkun Olam (giving to others), and living every day as if it is your last. I am not denying the fact that we definitely could have been exposed to minor 'pro-Israel propaganda' during our trip, but the fact that we could feel these things for ourselves, truly shows how special of a place it is. This tiny Rhode Island sized country is a magical and empowering place, but experiencing it with my Taglit Birthright trip is what made it so incredibly special.
I was a proud member of a group of 41 young adults aged 20 to 26. Half of us had attended summer camp together for the past 10 plus years, and half of us were total strangers in the beginning. The speed at which we bonded and came together as one big group is truly baffling. By halfway through the first day, even our trip leaders could not specify who was a part of the camp group, and who was not.
I attribute the joy of this life changing trip to the 40 other individuals I was lucky enough to experience it with, the three incredible trip leaders, and the seven Israeli soldiers who taught me so much about what it means to be a good person. I'm fairly certain I could write a short story (or probably a novel) about what these people mean to my life.
Traveling with a group of people your own age is an empowering experience. You are able to share stories, experiences, and life lessons with them. You are able to grow and expand your horizons with each other, and experience life changing emotional developments. My appreciation for the 40 individuals I was lucky enough to travel with is unparalleled. They taught me to see all angels of a situation, to question my own thoughts and beliefs, and to absolutely buy in to all activities presented to you. These people helped me to become more confident in myself, confident in my beliefs, and proud of being who I am.
Thank you, Birthright group, for teaching me so much about myself. You helped me to realize my full potential in life, and you all inspired me to do better and be better (and you continue to). Thank you to my trip leaders for creating the most perfect itinerary for sharing Israel in all of its history, beauty, and passion to all of us. Thank you to our Israeli soldiers for being so admirable and for showing all of us what true dedication and patriotism really means.
The Taglit Birthright organization is truly incredible, and I am so honored and privileged to have been a part of it. I never knew that 10 days could alter my life so significantly, but I am forever grateful it did. Birthright has changed me in the most magical way, and it would not have been the same without my wonderful group members. Words cannot describe how thankful I am for all of you. I wish you all the best in life, and I cannot wait to come back together and reunite on our next adventure.
XOX,
Nina Price, Editor-in-Chief
