A Turning Point

First stop, Machaneh Yehuda, an amazing open-air market in Jerusalem. Everywhere you turned, fresh food. Fruits, vegetables, breads. Everything you could possibly think of was in one market. We walked around and got lunch either on the street or in a hole-in-the-wall restaurant with fresh falafel, shwarma, humous, pita, olives, or truly any food you wanted. This place was colorful beyond belief. The atmosphere was amazing, and the people were so polite. I love farmers markets back home, but this one topped every one I've been to so far. 

The next day we went to Masada and the Dead Sea. Most of the people on our trip had never been to either before, and I can tell you that I will never forget my time there. Masada is huge. You know when you look at some challenge you have and you think to yourself, "that looks hard, but it can't be that difficult" and then you start and you think to yourself, "who thought this was a good idea?" That was climbing Masada for me. I have a personal connection to Masada and was eager to get to the top, but that didn't take away at all from the challenge of it. My grandmother had her bat mitzvah on the top of Masada and I was determined to make it up by myself and reinforce my Hebrew name in her honor. It was one of the biggest physical challenges I have faced in a while, but it was more than well worth the climb. When we got to the top, we learned about the history of it all and had our naming ceremonies, images permanently ingrained in my mind. 

The reward for making it up and down Masada was a trip to the Dead Sea. If you've never been, you need to go. In my opinion, it was one of the most beautiful places to be. The bottom of the Dead Sea is pure salt. There are literally just crystallized salt balls sitting at the bottom, covering the floor. You walk out a little bit into the sea and squat down, you lay back, and you're floating. You are laying on your back simply floating. It was beautiful. With Jordan in the background and Israel straight in front of you, how you could not be blissfully happy? 

We spent the night at a Bedouin-style spot in the desert. While the cots were not the most comfortable, and a few people were scared of the creatures that could come from outside our tent, the night was an amazing experience. We had some great food and got to learn a bit about Bedouin culture and history. When it got dark we went out a ways from the camp site and got to take some time to internally reflect and look up at the stars. I know for me, and a few others in the group, nature brings us closer to our spirituality. I feel most at home when I'm surrounded by the stars, the moon, and the sky. It's peaceful and spiritual and wonderful, and it was a great way to wind down from the day. 

Overall, the past few days have been amazing. Scratch that, the past almost-ten days were amazing. This trip has truly been a turning point in my life and I know it's impacted everyone on this trip. We still have a little while left, and we are going to make the most of it. 

- Elyssa Hurwitz