Israel is such an amazing place. The people, the spirit and the energy can be felt everywhere. Israel serves as my second home. Last Shabbat, as we walked through the streets of Tzfat, an older woman and man opened their home to our entire group. Although we did not go in, the thought that strangers opened their home to us was amazing. People here are so happy to be alive. After experiencing the epitome of life in Poland, to travel to the Kotel and see it thriving showed how Judaism has survived. I can honestly say that I am proud to be Jewish. Israel has opened my eyes to life and let me touch and taste how sweet it is.
Molly Weiner

From the barren, hot, rugged and dry Negev Desert to the rolling wooded forests to the stone buildings of the old city of Jerusalem, Israel is the most beautiful and exhilarating country anywhere.
Brian Glater

The past few days we have spent hiking in some of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. The first two days we hiked in and along side rivers and went swimming in freezing cold water. As I hiked and swam all I could do was thank Hashem. How did I get so lucky to end up on a trip with amazing people in such an incredible country?
Michelle Sherry

In the Golan Heights we hiked down into a beautiful valley. It felt as if I was in a rainforest with the tall trees blocking out most of the sunlight. Breathtaking pink flowers surround us with every step. We sat down near a stream and Yigal told us a fairy tale about a shepherd who gave his life for his love, a princess and the flowers are all that is left of him for the princess to remember. I think of this story and smile each time I see a flower. Then we came to a large pool of water and a waterfall. I carefully stepped into the cold refreshing water and swam to sit on the rocks behind the waterfall. From this point I witness one of the most spectacular views I have ever seen and I never wanted to leave. The Golan Heights is one of the most beautiful areas I have ever seen and it would be such a loss if we gave this land back to Syria.
Anonymous

When one hundred and ten Jews climb over mountains and swim in rivers traveled in by hundreds and thousands of Jews before, there is a bond with the Jewish people. I have been so enveloped in this bond it is amazing. One of the most exciting things we've done is visit an Arab town. I could see the "other side" of the conflict come to life. I could begin after this experience to see the many perspectives on Israel.
Vanessa Brockman