To say I wasn’t nervous would be a lie. Would my limited Hebrew prevent me from connecting with the Israelis? Would my absence from the Mifgash in Cleveland separate me from the rest of the Cohort? Fortunately I was wrong. As we walked off the bus there was an uproar of laughter and shouting. Each and every Israeli welcomed me into their lives instantaneously. Neta, my host, was a little late to arrive, but when she dis she ran into my arms. After everyone had calmed down (slightly) we made our way inside the Youth Center. We made a massive pile of luggage, threw our hats and sunglasses in our backpacks and proceeded to make a circle– how else would a large group of teenagers start an activity? We played a game I had never heard of, “Where the wind blows.” Basically, someone says something and if it is true for yourself you walk across the circle. Despite this classic attempt to try to get to know each other, I simply did not learn anything about anyone. Lucky for us, we had plenty of time (because for once we were ahead of the schedule found in our every so handy sourcebook) to make conversation and grow as English and Hebrew speakers. Nothing has made me want to learn Hebrew more than being here. It’s incredible to be able to see the life of these teenagers whose country we have spent sixteen years learning about. It was a goal of mine to learn about their point of view on the conflict– which in fact most people are surprised that I even know about it. I realize how divided the nation truly is. No one can explain it, you have to see it with your own eyes. Nothing has made me love Israel more than the people. Everyone is willing to reach out their hand and do anything to make you feel at home. I have already hung out with many of Neta’s friends and they have all invited me in their homes and conversations. We’ve shared countless laughs and stories. I feel like I’ve know them forever. The sense of community and family here is unbelievable. Neta’s family has been exceptionally welcoming and will do anything to get me and Gabrielle to drink and eat. Everyone loves to teach us Hebrew and watch us grow as our skills develop. I’m looking forward to the next couple of days and I will be extremely sad knowing that I have to leave Neta, her family, and the rest of the Israelis.