Setting the Stage

I’ve told friends, colleagues, neighbors, and family: I’m going to Israel. I heard, “you’ll have an amazing time!” (Also, “Are you sure it’s safe?” from a few.)

• The overnight flight, the sinus pain when landing, the sweaty lines at passport control? Not the most amazing time, but it all fell away pretty quickly. All I needed to do was look around and be open to the experience.
• The words of welcome at the airport were infused with meaning; blessed are those who come.
• The bus ride to Tel Aviv, passing farms and houses and apartment buildings, many topped with cisterns and solar panels, reminded me of the miracle of Israel’s existence, with its ingenuity in capturing precious natural resources.
• The quick walk to the beach was a chance to get to know some traveling companions a little better.
• And the wonderful welcome dinner, hearing from Trip Leader Lori Palatnik and meeting so many interesting, beautiful women, truly set the stage for this week.

I am sure all of those people were right: I’m going to have an amazing time.

Jenn Rafael
Pozez JCC /The JFGW
Fairfax, VA