Dear David,
I just wanted to extend my deepest appreciation and gratitude for leading us American maniacs for 2 weeks in Israel. You were the source of such a great experience. Your wealth of knowledge, love, and respect for Israel was not only contagious but beautiful, moving and inspirational. Your patience and openness with everyone on the trip really facilitated the connection between us and our beautiful homeland.
Coming away from the trip, you left us with the idea that the journey is not over when we get home. You are right. Not only have I developed some life long sisters from this trip, the trip inspired me to step away from hectic life in New York City and look at the things in a different perspective. Not quite sure what that perspective is yet, but as you said this is a journey.
But it has made me think and feel in a different way from when I left not too long ago.
Thank you again for being who you are and thank you for showing me the Israeli landscape, the Israeli way of life, and I guess just the Israeli heart: which I look at as this way and idea of living for what you really love and what you care about.
I will always remember this trip, and Israel will always have a special place in my heart. Thank you for being part of that.
Warm Regards,
Stephanie Yolish
Bus 27, Birthright Israel
August 2008