I cried my first week in Hebrew school. I cried because it had taken years for me to get my parents to find the money and desire to send me. I cried because my father died before he could see me go.  When I got there, with my crisp new Siddur and pencils in tow, I was told I was behind. I didn’t mind, because I knew that Hebrew school was not just another after-school activity.  I grew up hearing people say “I am Jewish because …”. In turn I replied with Hanukkah candles and Matza but I found some core of my identity when I said instead “because I am Jewish…”. Because I am Jewish, I want to see Israel.  And be a mensch . As one, I truly believe one person can change the world.  I am highly affected by the passion of friends and family.  With it they have changed my world. When I hear them describe their trips to Israel, I am moved, and I want so much to be a part of their Israel. Going to Israel is a journey on which I want to embark upon in order to learn more about myself.   

This upcoming May I will be going to Israel on Birthright. I applied this past winter but I know that it has taken me longer to prepare myself to go.  I am very excited!