Thursday, July 21, 2011

July 17: The Day Has Come

The day was finally here. The day we had anticipated for the past 3 months. We would finally be able to reconnect with our Israeli counterparts from the Upper Galilee. None of us knew what to expect when we drove into the hot desert and our feelings were all over the spectrum, from nervous to exhilarated.

We drove to Neot Kedumim, a biblical park in which we ran to the Israelis as they stepped off the bus. Immediately the 40 of us were filled with a sense of comfort and familiarity. Staff from the park led us through short but meaningful leadership activities which gave us a way to work together with the Israelis once again and completing a shared goal. The activities ranged from sheep herding to a rope activity in which are senses were minimalized. The scenery provided us with a historical lesson and a beautiful view of the land around us.

As we embarked on a new part of our Israel journey, we strengthened our bonds with the Israeli fellows. The two groups took a bus to the heart of the Negev for a special camping experience. While some helped prepare dinner for the evening, others played songs and had time to relax with both coherts.

After dinner the fellows laughed over silly ice breakers and had a mini bonfire as we watched the sunset. We couldn’t imagined the repeated harmony of the two groups and the beauty of the desert night. Watching the stars from our sleeping bags while enjoying our time together, we all realized that SF and the Upper Galilee have a bright future ahead of them. We’re looking forward to being with them again at Congress and in the comfort of their homes.

With love,
Nadav and Ari

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