Throughout our trip, we learned so many important stories that demonstrated the resilience of the Jewish people. We have walked in the same deserts and on the same beaches as our ancestors did when they were forced off the land. We have climbed the same mountains, swam in the same oceans and prayed at the same Holy Temple.
I have realized through this experience that the utter resilience of the Jewish people is what makes Israel important. Our ancestors didn't know if we would ever make it back. Yet, there we were, toasting to the same aqueducts of Caesarea and sitting under the stars in the same Negev. We made it back because the Jews have fought for thousands of years to protect this land. We made it back because the Jewish people are resilient, and this has continued on for each generation.
I think I have realized my own resilience through this experience. I now understand how deeply it is rooted in my bones. This trip truly pushed my limits, from climbing down Mount Arbel after only two hours of sleep to standing at the Kotel on Shabbat with thousands of strangers who were all there for the same reason. Although I had aching feet and droopy eyelids, I continued. I was walking on the same land that my ancestors fought to protect, and clearly we have done something right for thousands of years because we were able to return.
Israel is important because it is a home for people who are resilient. It is a home to people who are willing to die for their country and for their ancestors who once died for them. Israel is made up of strong, determined, and yes - resilient - people who can overcome anything. I am so proud to have been born with this resilience in my blood.