Israel Day 1

By Sarah Kahane

The first day of my trip to Israel was packed to the brim and set the tone for the entire trip. Stepping off the plane and driving straight to Shoham, Memphis’ sister city, was an experience unlike any other. As we met with the teenagers who lived in Shoham, we had discussions ranging from the profound impacts of conflict on their lives to the simplicity of shared interests and aspirations. Despite the weight of their experiences, meeting with the kids reminded me that despite our differences, we truly are the same and share the same goals for Klal Yisrael.

However, it was the visit to the rehab hospital for wounded soldiers that truly resonated with me. Listening to the stories of resilience from soldiers who carry both the physical and emotional scars of battle, yet radiated an unwavering positivity towards life and their faith, was moving. Their unwavering spirit, coupled with a connection to Judaism, showcased the resilience of the soldiers fighting for our country and the power of faith each other holds, even in the darkest times. 

Continuing to push through our exhaustion from the flight, we went to the Hostages and Missing Families Forum and hostage square, a pivotal moment that changed how each of us viewed the situation with the hostages. Listening to firsthand accounts of hostages and their families and seeing the art displayed in the square, we were met with the reality of the lives that have been turned completely upside down.

Each encounter throughout the day, whether with teenagers navigating the aftermath of conflict, soldiers healing from battle, or families of hostages, underscored the depth and toll this war has taken on every person in Israel. The day ended as we ate dinner together in the hotel, and collectively processed the magnitude of our experiences. Though this was only the first day, we already understood how important it was for us to be there, with Bnei Yisrael.