This is the first installment of our “My Israel Story” series. All week, we’ll be sharing personal photos and stories from our staff about their connection to Israel in honor of Yom HaZikaron (Memorial Day) and Yom HaAtzmaut (Independence Day) on May 10-12. We look forward to sharing even more of our Israel stories and experiences this summer at camp!

“Last winter break, I decided to go to Israel on a Birthright trip. I had already been to Israel before this trip, staying for about a month and a half, although this was six years ago. As a current senior in college, I wanted to experience Israel with a more mature lens, bringing new knowledge and appreciation. Through these ten days, I feel that I became spiritually closer to Israel. A surreal moment for me was when I was standing at the Western Wall. I had already been to this spot before, but my experience at the Wall was different my second time there. Just standing there, I realized how incredibly long this stone structure in front of me was standing for. The Western Wall has stood for centuries through severe weather, war, and other historic landmarks in history. Stories that we’ve only read about had happened while this wall was standing. At this moment, by just standing in front of the Western Wall, I felt connected to the long history and strength of Israel.”