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Today marked the first day of Minneapolis Jewish Federation’s second Volunteer and Solidarity Trip to Israel, Tikvatenu II. We heard from Michael Stern, a community member who embarked on his first-ever trip to Israel. Stay tuned this week on our social media to hear more about their journey.

Today was an unforgettable day.  As a first-time visitor to our homeland, my anticipation grew every day since I booked my flight several months ago.  For days, weeks, and months, friends and family would constantly ask me “Are you so excited? Do you have any idea what you’re in for?  Do you know how magical this place is?”  While the answer was a resounding “yes” to all three, it finally became very real.

The trip here was a safe one, beginning with an early flight out of MSP on Sunday morning, and culminating with applause as we touched down in Tel Aviv this morning.  As I walked off the plane, the warm desert sun splashed across my face as I walked through the jetway, where I was met by those in our group who are and will become dear friends through sharing this incredible experience together.  “Bring them Home Now” signs were everywhere, an ever-present reminder that we still have a grieving and fractured home that we are helping to rebuild.

We shuttled over to Rehovot from Ben Gurion and had a chance to walk up and down Herzl St. for some food and shopping before we kicked off our programming.  First and second on the list was to get some real falafel and shawarma – both of which were absolutely amazing.  We then went back to our dorm where we formally began the week, connecting with one another and understanding the value that Israel holds in each one of us.  What followed was a great discussion with Haviv Rettig Gur, who provided us with a great deal of optimism regarding the war, the future of Israel, and us as Jews.
After that, of course, was dinner – salads, dips, kabobs, desserts, you name it.  We concluded the night by setting the stage for tomorrow, as most of us went up to our rooms to get some much-needed rest.

There is so much in store this week that it’s hard to put into words what I’m feeling in anticipation. What I do know though, is this truly feels like home.