Ani Zocher:
Pilgrims' Stories

Poland Seminar 2003,
by Tamara Nachmani, Pinwheel

This summer I went on Poland/Israel Pilgrimage with Group 2. Although I had been to Israel numerous times before (seven to be exact) this trip was completely different. I really got to see all of Israel and get a feel of the country.

I think one of the most moving experiences I had in Israel occurred at Kikar Rabin (the area where the peace rally in which Rabin was assassinated at was held) in Tel Aviv. After a quick tour, our whole group assembled into a large circle to hold an emotional memorial service for Rabin, which concluded with the singing of Hatikvah. As we began to sing, two young men who were walking by, both shirtless and in cut off shorts abruptly stopped and joined our circle. Another lady, who was strolling with her friend down the street, also heard Hatikvah and without a word of explanation hurried from her friend to join us. At the end of their anthems the Israelis walked off as it nothing had happened.

I was, and still am, so amazed and impressed by the loyalty, love and respect these Israeli's had for their country. By the end of the summer I realized that every Israeli, not just the three I encountered at Kikar Rabin, have to most incredible respect for Israel. I think that it is this widespread reverence that makes Israel such an amazing country.

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