Editor’s note: this is Part II of “March of the Living”, Emily Brand’s journey to Israel. To read Part I, her journey to Poland, click here.
After a week in the camps, it was time to travel to Israel for Yom Hazikaron and Yom Ha'atzmaut, Israeli Memorial Day and Independence Day.
Upon arriving in Israel in very early hours of the morning, we immediately went to climb to Masada and swim in the Dead Sea. Masada is an ancient fortification in the Southern District of Israel situated on top of an isolated rock plateau on the eastern edge of the Judaean Desert, overlooking the Dead Sea. It is the place where the last Jewish stronghold against Roman invasion stood. The Dead Sea, also called the Salt Sea, is a salt lake bordering Jordan to the east and Israel and the West Bank to the west. Its surface and shores are 1,388 ft. below sea level, the lowest elevation on the Earth’s surface on dry land.
One of my journal reflections while in Israel: After an incredibly emotional and hard day at Majdanek yesterday, being able to walk out of the camp, fly to Israel, and hike up Masada and swim in the Dead Sea really made me excited to see what Israel has in store for me.
We then travelled to Tel Aviv and visited the Independence Hall where David Ben-Gurion declared freedom for the State of Israel. Most of the exhibits there are original, while some have been reconstructed in precise detail, transporting the visitor back in time to that incredible event. Visitors can also hear the original recording of the ceremony.
As the sun set, Israel went into a day of mourning for Yom Hazikaron (Israel Memorial Day). We attended a special memorial program at the Latrun army base to hear stories from the families. It was a truly touching memorial and one that opened my eyes to what the Israelis have experienced. It really made me realize how precious life is, and we should cherish every moment we have with those we love and care about. In observance, a siren is blared throughout the country at night and the next day. During this siren, the entire country stands still, people get out of their cars, and stand in silence as the country mourns the loss of all the fallen soldiers. I’ve seen videos online, but it does not do it justice to seeing it with my own eyes.
The next day we spent in Jerusalem, visiting the Jewish quarter and the Kotel (Western Wall). Located in the Old City of Jerusalem and at the foot of Temple Mount, it was one of the the four walls that King Herod built to support the plaza where the temple stood. I walked up to the Wall, put my hand on it, and started reciting a few prayers. Although I am not a very religious person, there was something truly remarkable about being able to physically touch something that has been standing since biblical times.
Being that this was my first time in Israel, I didn't know what to expect. I knew Israel was the "holy land" and the "home land" but I didn't think much of it. Nevertheless, I've never felt more at home, especially because I went with BBYO (B’nai B’rith Youth Organization). There is something truly unique about being surrounded by people who share the same beliefs and values as me. Israel is an extraordinary place, and this trip has given me incredible memories that I will carry with me forever. I’ve loved being able to spend time with old and new friends while experiencing Israel’s culture, celebrating holidays, and gaining a first hand look into Israel’s rich history. I've never felt safer and I’ve never felt like I belonged anywhere more. I think it's pretty safe to say I've found my second home.
Learn more about March of the Living here.