It’s difficult to articulate the meaning of a constant
thread of pivotal moments at the end of the day. Our feet hurt, we’re jetlagged, we’re
overwhelmed and we’re just plain exhausted.
That being said, the past two days have been nothing short of
life-changing. Both of us have heard so
much about the Taglit-Birthright trip from friends and family and everything we
have experienced so far has surpassed our high expectations. This morning we hiked a beautiful
river-valley trail in the Golan Heights and later visited Mount Ben-Tal, which
overlooks the border between Syria and Israel.
Spectacular landscapes aside, the historical images and political
sentiments our guide, Chaim, conveyed
were truly impacting. It gave us a
completely new perspective on the challenges that ordinary Israelis faced and
their triumphs in spite of severe opposition.
We realized how fiercely Israelis have fought for and continue to
protect the right to a Jewish homeland. Their
strength is inspiring to us and we look forward to meeting some of these
Israeli soldiers and getting to know their stories and perspectives.
Ashley Oberndorfer and Carly Yeager
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