Here we are, in Israel. Year after year I have seen classes come back from their Israel trip and we would chant however many years we had till it was our turn. Each year it was getting closer and closer… and now we are finally here!
We woke up at 4:00 am to climb Massada. It was probably one of the most (if not the most) difficult hike I have ever done in my life. I was glad that we started early, so the sun wouldn’t be out. Everyone knows how easily I get burnt. Once all of Massada was clearly visible to me in broad daylight, I almost fell over. How in the word am I gonna be able to climb that? Well I did climb it. As we were hiking up, I kept focusing on how much we had left to climb, but then I started focusing on how much I had already climbed. That made me realize that I could confidently finish. Lets just say when I got to the top, I could not have felt prouder of myself or more satisfied for what I had just accomplished.
Since we had woken up so early, after Massada, it felt like we already had a full day, but no. We soon went to the Dead Sea. Leaning back for the first time and floating rather than sinking was an amazing experience. To bad Lake Michigan isn’t the same.
Anyways, I have enjoyed Israel so far and am really excited for what’s to come. The only thing I don’t like is the amount of garbage cats. Did I mention there was one in the Tel Aviv airport?! I do miss home a lot, but I am very grateful that I am getting this amazing opportunity, especially as a Jew.
P.S. I miss you mom! Happy Mothers Day! (2 days late)
Also, thanks Sophie for helping me pack. You made everything much easier! 🙂
Thank you for sharing! I appreciate how your perspective was able to change mid-way through your hike up- such a great lesson for all of us!
Wow, it sounds like you had a great growth mindset while climbing Masada! Do you know that “garbage cats” have a special name in Hebrew? They are called pachtulim. It’s a combination of pach (garbage) and chatool (cat). I miss you all, but it is so awesome seeing your beautiful faces in Israel. Enjoy every minute!
-Gev. Honigman
Incredible!! Can’t wait to read more about your adventures! 🙂 Eat a falafel for me!
So wonderful to hear!! We miss you so much, but you made my day and so happy to hear all the growing and learning you are doing!!!! Enjoy!!!✡️❤️
thanks mom!!
I am proud of you, Harry! Try some spicy food and stay in the moment.
Those cats are weird…
super weird
What a way to begin your trip! Enjoy every moment of it.
Thank you for the great post, Harry. You certainly painted a vivid picture of your experiences so far. Glad the trip has started out well. Love to you all! Thanks for the photos too, teachers!
What a wonderful account of your adventure to Masada! Thanks for connecting us.