Today
was a day unlike any other in Birthright history. It started off with one of
the cornerstones of the trip, meeting our soldiers! We have 8 Israeli soldiers
who are the same age as our students who join us for the middle 5 days--not as
security, but as participants. After a quick stop for some "speed
dating" to get to know each other, we headed off to the very first
Taglit-Birthright Sports and Spirit Mega Event.
Together
with another 2000 Birthright participants, we met up and competed against each
other in a variety of sports and physical challenges. Our team designed a
beautiful flag combining Testudo, UMD's mascot, and the Israeli flag, which we
waved proudly as we cheered our teammates on. From tug-of-war, tractor pulls
and paintball to volleyball and basketball, our team gave it their all. And
what we lacked in skill, we made up for in spirit (GO MARYLAND!). Despite the
heat, it was an incredible experience to bond with each other and be with so
many other Jews, celebrating our homeland.
But
the day did not end there! After all the sports and challenges, we were treated
to an incredible show, featuring Israeli Cabinet Member Naftali Bennett and
Birthright founders and sponsors Charles Bronfman and Michael Steinhardt, who
so generously give their money for us to have these incredible experiences. And
there was still more! After the speeches, the awards ceremony, the flag
presentation....there was an energetic concert starring an Israeli reggae band
called Hatikvah Shesh.
It
was quite a day, and we know it will only get better, as tomorrow we (finally)
make our way to Jerusalem.
No comments:
Post a Comment