Connections to Judaism and Israel

My connection to Judaism from this birthright trip has certainly been a gradual, but definitely present, process. The land of Israel is so different from the lush, green geography of the American east coast that the first experiences were moments of awe in scenery and architecture. The first moment where I finally felt connected was when touring the port of Jaffa. Some sort of chilling feeling came when staring out of this ancient port, where some of the first Israeli Jews has arrived in the early 20th century, not to mention those of ancient times.

Touring each ancient location had given a similar chill, though it was a different feeling of connection to Judaism than those brought by family and tradition. The connection was and is certain present in a more communal and historical way, almost mystical at times. Going to the Western Wall and seeing Orthodox, reform, and cultural Jews, all praying as one in a way, was an unforgettable sight. Joining them was an unforgettable experience. Walking around the excavation site on the southwest corner of the Temple Mount brought some eerie feeling of a historical connection to Judaism for which I have never felt before. I feel as if all of these joint feelings and connections are building to a complete connection not to just Judaism, but rather a connection between Judaism, Israel, and myself. It has truly been a rewarding experience thus far.

-Maxwell Alpert