By Lindsay Zimble, NFTY in Israel Participant, Bus 7
For chavaya, a four day free choice, the majority of my friends decided to spend a few days in the IDF or hike from the Sea of Galilee to the Mediterranean. For some reason I went out on a limb and chose Tikkun Olam, repairing the world. Even though none of my friends were doing it, I would not trade my experience with it for the world.
We volunteered with the elderly and special needs youth of Jerusalem. I realized the feeling of being able to put a smile on someone’s face is greater than the feeling felt from any amount of likes on an Instagram picture or any piece of overpriced clothing. It was so fulfilling to help bring a smile to somebody else’s face. So many people live feeling as if they are a burden to the rest of the world and no one deserves to feel that way. It was eye opening to see how smart and happy kids living with special needs can be or how an elderly person who no longer has family can smile from an hour of conversation. Even though there was a language barrier, a universal smile could give them a confidence boost that they needed to get through the day. Helping to repair the world is a spectacular feeling that made me ignore my phone; I believe that we should all strive to do more things like this.
This experience also taught me about other people and other cultures. As American Jews, we picture all of Israel to be somewhat affluent and completely filled with history. While these characteristics make up some of Israel, there is a world of poverty that tourists are not exposed to. This experience has taught me that there is truly no such thing as a utopia and that all places are diverse through all aspects of life.
My initial perception of Israel was fairly skewed. I believed that it was a war torn country with no agreement between the Israelis and Palestinians at all. I was clueless to the fact that many Jews and Muslims coexisted. Arab Israelis were kind enough to welcome us into their home despite the difference in our religions. By coming to Israel and meeting different cultures, I can conclude that while all societies living in Israel are different, they are all still human.
Through this experience I was able to strengthen my passion for working with people, especially kids. In addition, I have also furthered my idea that age, religion, ethnicity, or depiction from society does not identify a person. I am so thankful for this experience and the positive impact it has had on my life. I look forward to using these skills at home and throughout my life, and pass on.
