Birthright Highlights

By Izzy Shocket

One highlight from my Taglit Birthright israel trip was our visit to the Southern part of the Western Wall. First, seeing all of the rocks and boulders that had been pushed from the top of the wall shows the determination of one group to destroy the Jews. I think it left an impression on me because it was the first site of destruction that we had been taken to. I felt a sense of pride knowing that the Jewish people survived such hatred. This is when it hit me that I was in Israel, in Jerusalem, in the holy city. I was standing where my ancestors stood years and years ago. Hearing the story behind the fallen rocks connected me to the land and the people in my group.

Second, I thought it was very interesting to learn about the current
issues that are being debated. We were told that the women met at the
Southern part of the Wall to pray together, because the Orthodox men
complained that when the women prayed at the women’s section of the
Western Wall, they were too loud. To me, it seems like a silly thing
to complain about. I would appreciate their devotion to Judaism and
their dedication to prayer. I enjoyed hearing about the differing
political views.

I loved the trip and I can’t wait to go back to Israel!

Don't forget to check out our website. www.hillel.org.vt.edu