This morning, the fellows finished their last morning on the Hukuk Kibbutz. After a quick breakfast and a few stretches, we stepped into the bus for a two and a half hour ride to the heart and soul of Israel: Jerusalem. Starting at the Herzl museum, we observed Binyamin Ze’ev Herzl on his arduous journey to Zionism, learning the importance of the legacy he left behind. Next, we visited the memorial park and cemetery where Herzl and many other important leaders of Israel, such as Golda Meir and Yitzhak Rabin are buried. Additionally, at the same cemetary were many soldiers who died in combat, and their wished to be buried on the grouds. The group was shocked to see many soldiers who fought for their country as young as ten years old. Making our way down the hill, we stopped at the Shuk of Machane Yehuda; the fellows finally had some free time to shop and practice their bargaining skills! Following a speedy hotel stop, we changed into Shabbat attire and walked to the Old City and the Western Wall. The cohort had a small private service nearby, in which we sang and shared laughs over young children’s letters to God. Armed with small slips of paper, we then walked to the Kotel. Although the men and women were separated, similar activities occurred on both sides. Many felt a powerful connection in a quiet prayer touching the wall, followed by singing and dancing with members of the Israeli Defense Force, Orthodox Jews, and many strangers who congregated for the same purpose. It was agreed by many that this experience was otherworldly and unforgettable.
Kyle Wasserman
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