By Genna Grodin, NFTY in Israel Participant, Bus 3
Last night was my first Shabbat in Israel. I can confidently say it was meaningful. The reason why starts with the beginning of the day. On our bus of 51 teens it was sort of divided into 2 group: East coast and West Coast. Since we still had introductions to make it, it was important for all of us to bond over a special place: the Negev desert. I had vague expectations for the desert, picturing it as sand dunes like the Sahara. Instead, I met with a hard surface, beautiful mountains, dust, and cool rock formations. Prior to Shabbat T’fillah, we did a hike that felt like a jigsaw puzzle between rocks. Our group bonded over helping each other along the path and taking in the views.
Next, we set our campsite at dusk and ate dinner. I don’t usually attend Friday night services but this one, I will never forget. It started at about 9 in the cold desert night. All 80 of us (Bus 3 and Bus 4) gathered together in a circle around a single lantern and Dolph (Dan), our unit supervisor. We sang prayers with our arms around one another. I’ve never witnessed a stronger community or “kehillah”. What made everything even better was seeing every star in the sky plus a full moon over the desert hills. My first Shabbat was a magical night and I can’t wait for the next 3 Shabbats!!
