A Jewish Journey of Identity and Courage

in less than eighty years!” “Cool,” Olivia said, handing my phone back. “I still hope you’ll come to college with me and not go serve in the IDF,” she added with a smile. “That’s the plan,” I said, grinning. “Although I think I’d look good in uniform.” We both laughed as we returned our trays. On the way to class, I reflected on how many people, even my closest friends, don’t really know Israel or what life is like there. Everyone has some idea of what “Israel” is, but most kids around me have never been there and don’t know anyone who lives there. When people think of France, they picture the Eiffel Tower. Italy conjures images of the Colosseum. London brings to mind Big Ben. But when people think of Israel… it’s usually camels, deserts, and wars. Yet Israel is so much more than that, and I don’t think it’s just because I have family there. It really is a special place. For the next session, Shelly asked us to reflect on our personal connection to Israel. After finishing my math homework, I wrote in my journal: Israel for me is family. My parents’ families live there, and I have cousins scattered all over the country. When I visit Israel, I feel at home in a way I don’t in any other country. Even though my Hebrew isn’t great, I manage to communicate with my cousins, and I love spending time with them. It felt a bit too brief, so I tried to think of what else to add. I surprised myself when I wrote: When I’m older, I’d like to live in Israel for a few months to learn Hebrew and get to know the country better.

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