It has been particularly difficult to adjust to college life this semester. Literally going directly from Israel back to our normal routines was a challenging task, but I think the members of Mayanot 217 are starting to get back in the swing of things.
It’s so hard to recall one specific memory from the awesome trip we were lucky to embark on. There were nonstop activities, speakers, hikes, tours, etc., all of which we learned and gained valuable memories from. Every part of the trip was amazing, so I won’t focus on one specific place we went, or person we met. Instead, I’d like to talk about something called a Fabrangen (later nicknamed, “Fa Bring it On” by our group). For our first Shabbat, the Rabbi invited everyone to participate in one of these sessions/celebrations. He purposely did not go into specifics about what it entailed; he simply told us to experience it for ourselves if we wanted to. I later learned why he didn’t describe it. On our Birthright trip, I learned that Fabrangens are what you make of them. They include open discussions, celebrations, and questions about life. I was able to instantly open myself up, think deeply about whatever was on my mind, and never be afraid to question things. This was something I know I learned from, and will stick with me as I continue to grow. These sessions, along with other deep and meaningful conversations I was a part of throughout the entirety of the trip, opened my mind about the idea that I will never stop growing, and will always continue to learn and experience new things.
Something else that sticks out to me, personally, is how important it is to explore other places and cultures. Most of our group had not previously had a chance to leave the continent, and learn so much about a different place and culture. It’s so easy to get caught up in stress, and little problems of daily life, but being in Israel allowed me to step back and look at things in a much different, lighter, and clearer perspective. It’s a feeling that’s hard to describe, and can really only be explained by experiencing it for yourself. Also, though Israeli culture may be much different than what we are used to, it’s not just another culture to learn about. Visiting Israel made me realize that I am part of this culture. I am Jewish, and will therefore always be welcomed in this place that people assured us is “home.”