Alexis Rapkin

Spending three days in the Negev Desert was an incredible experience. The days were hot and dry and I have never been so dirty in my entire life. Yet I'm so glad I had the opportunity to spend time in that beautiful place. The bonding and teamwork that took place in the Negev was phenomenal. We were all there for each other whether we were using ropes to get down old waterfalls or walking along the edge of a steep cliff. Many times I would be concentrating on the rocks in front of me and praying I wouldn't fall down the steep slope, but when I finally reached the top I would look around with awe. The desert seemed endless and I couldn't believe we somehow scaled those rock mountains. Despite each days strenuous activities at night I would lie awake with rocks in my shoulder blades. I received comfort by watching the stars. There were billions of them visible from the lack of light pollution. In the Negev I finally understood why our galaxy was named the Milky Way. On a more personal note I would like to thank my dad for my height which was a huge asset when searching for footholds, and my mom for the hiking boots, Although my feet got terrible blisters, they saved me from falling, getting seriously injured or even plunging to my death.

Rebecca Joseph