July 30: North American "Kennes"/Conference (Alex Good)

July 30, 2013

Blog Author: Alex Good

Unfortunately like all things good, our incredible community week in Eilat/Eilot came to an end today as we boarded a mini bus that took us to the North American "Kennes"(Hebrew for 'conference'). Upon arrival at Givat Haviva, we were given a tour of the grounds before being broken into new groups (tribes) that we would spend the week with - each with representation from all Diller cities! 

Then the opening ceremony took place, led by the Junior Counsellor team. Each city performed a 90 second skit to introduce the other fellows to their home cities. We then met our tribes, which consist of one or two teens from each Diller North American city. Following dinner we had our first session where we learned about the history of the Jewish people as well as the division of the Jews in the diaspora. Before heading to sleep we had free time and began making new friends and meeting so many teens from all across North America. I am really looking forward to the rest of the Kennes/Congress and meeting so many new and amazing people -- and making memories that will last forever!

Identity Week: Glimpse of Community Week Impact (Hanna Unger)

Blog Author: Hanna Unger

What does it mean to have an identity?
That's the question that surfs in the waves of my mind as I commence to write this blog post. I am not talking about your religion, or your culture. Not your gender or your future job. I'm talking about YOU.

We speak our minds, but rarely know why we individually think a certain way. It's not the way we were raised, or the education we received as children and teenagers. It's us ultimately.

This week, we spent our days with our favourite and most amazing group in whole wide world: the Eilat - Eilot Diller Teen Fellows. Just like in the North American seminar, we connected in a blink of an eye. And I found my identity at the same speed, too.

You see, I moved to Canada 9 years ago from the wonderful city of Ashdod. And every since that day, I continued to be a proud "zaberit". I ate my falafels and hummus (but I still had my fair share of my maple syrup). My Hebrew continued to exit my lips. In fact, knowing Hebrew and Russian was probably one of the most significant things that stayed with me throughout the years, because if you don't speak one or two of those languages at my school, you would probably be missing out on many conversations.

I found myself this week with the Israelis. I laughed with them in Israeli humour, and I bonded with them in a way that was so rare to me. I was with the people who share my common ground, and part of my identity. I shared my deepest secrets to my closest Israeli friend, who to me is like a sister I have always wanted, and when the whole group sat today for the final "ma'agal", we all shared our love for everyone in this group. We connected as one.

Looking around the "ma'agal", I knew right away what my identity was: indescribable, because your identity cannot be described. It is not the fact that I'm israeli, or that I like to write. It is not the fact that I would rather wear high heel boots than any other shoe. It was just me. Hanna Unger, and I need to respect that.

So when I was asked by an Israeli "how do you speak Hebrew at home if you moved 9 years ago from Israel?", I answered "because your identity does not change once you move a country... It never does". Yes you could change your name, or get a new passport, but who you are will never change. It is you, breathing every second, and every day.
I will always be me. I am the 4 year old girl who ran around in the streets of Ashdod. I am the 6 year old girl who only found I was moving to Toronto. I am the 12 year old girl who realized what reality really is. And I am that 15 year old girl who is going into grade 11. I am the same girl, only older. I will carry my background with me my whole life. I am a proud maple syrup dripping Canadian, and a hummus loving Israeli born girl. I will be Jewish, and forever a zabarit. I will love Israel as much as I adore the incredible country of Canads. Those facts are the flowers around my identity that I have grown throughout this week.

As we say farewell today to our Eilat-Eilot families, we will feel a massive thrust in our hearts, because we will feel like a part of us will be left here in Eilat. We may not come back ever, or come visit ever couple of years. Yet, what we must never forget that the flowers around are identity will continue to blossom and bloom even when we leave. The memories that we made here in Eilat will never leave us. They are now part of our identity, and no matter what; the places you go, the people you meet, the things you learn; your identity will always be there. It will hold your hand and never leave. You are you.

July 28: Time to Give Back (Gabi Herman)

July 28, 2013

Blog Author: Gabi Herman

 Watching old episodes of Friends at weird times of the day has always been a part of my life in Canada, but I did not expect it to be in Israel. I keep turning on the TV just to see what this country is watching, and she seems to be watching the same outdated (but still funny) comedy. Friends fosters mutual understanding, friendship, and easy entertainment for Israelis and North Americans alike. Of course, I write this a little bit tongue-in-cheek; the number of deep, Friends-less connections I've been privileged to make so far with Jewish people of all backgrounds is extraordinary. Today, on our day of volunteering, our cohort got to connect on this deep level with some very unique people, learning about each other and hopefully adding to each others' lives. 

The first place we went to volunteer was called Yad Rojeh. Yad Rojeh is an organization which provides work and support to adults with developmental disabilities – they called them "anashim meyuchadim," or "special people." Yad Rojeh needed help painting their fence, and also invited us to sit with the people there and help them with their work. Back in Toronto I work with people with special needs, so this was exciting to me. After painting for a little bit, I went inside one of their rooms for working. With my mediocre Hebrew, I tried my best to introduce myself to the people present, and then sat down beside a woman who looked to be in her 20's. She was folding labels for date boxes, so I joined in and helped. As we folded, we chatted about basic things: pets, music, and the weather in Canada. There was beautiful art made by the people at Yad Rojeh all over the walls. By the end of our time there, I gained more than a few extra words of Hebrew. I gained the experience of doing a job which I'm already passionate about in Canada in Israel, too. I am pretty sure that the people at Yad Rojeh gained something as well. We departed with hugs, and went to our next location.

We had lunch in Potchim Atid's cozy facility. Singing, reminders to drink water, and cat naps followed. At last, we got to hear about the organization from a staff member. Potchim Atid (opening the future) does just that for children who are at risk. Throughout the year, children are paired with advisors, and meet them at least weekly for support. Over the summer, Potchim Atid runs a summer camp in the late afternoon to give the children something to do in a supportive environment. Diller's job today was to act as their counselors, with activities we had planned and would execute. We set up the activities swiftly, and waited for the children to arrive. They came noisily. Once they were divided into their groups, I tried my best to get to know the kids in mine. Using so-so Hebrew again, I noticed how nonjudgmental they were of my accent and linguistic faux-pas. In fact, I seemed to be making friends with my babbling. We ran around from station to station (with water breaks!) for a long time. Suddenly, the end of the day came. The children thanked us loudly. I received a lot of hugs. Before Diller left the camp, we presented Potchim Atid with backpacks and school supplies in order to help equip children for the school year. 

A common vein I noticed throughout today was how wherever we went, we seemed to make connections. Through talking to the people we were helping, even about TV shows like Friends, we established a common ground. The volunteering made it actually meaningful with the beauty of lending a hand. Today, more than ever, I felt a sense of international cooperation and comradeship. Diller is truly giving back; we're getting a lot, too.

(click on the images below to make them bigger)

July 27: Typical Shabbat in Eilat (Jonah Buckstein)

July 27, 2013

Blog Author: Jonah Buckstein

As I woke up at 1030 saturday morning, following one of the best sleeps of my life, a strange thought occurred to me; this would be the first day that the group would not be together. Though initially disappointed to be separated from some of my best friends, the delicious smells coming from the kitchen of the upcoming breakfast soon washed it away. I was not to be disappointed as I was treated to freshly baked bourekas, three kinds of pasta,muesli and a variety of Israeli cheeses and salad. 

After being stuffed to the brim, it was decided that to avoid joining the Biggest Loser, some excersise was needed. That excersise came in the form of a two hour, 50 km bike ride in 45 Degrees heat. Despite being lathered with sunscreen, I was absolutely scorched (sorry, mom). To prevent a hospital visit, Sagi's (my host) mother broke off a branch from an aloe plant and lathered the green liquid all over body to assuage my stinging pain. We then entered a lagoon that was designated for birdwatching, and from there we proceeded to the beach, where we immediately dove in with our snorkelling gear. We saw some of the strangest fish, as well as the most beautiful reefs scattered across a half km sprawl along the ocean floor. 

At about 5 o'clock we returned home where Sagi's mom made shwarma from scratch for dinner. Sagis father then cut both Sagi's and my hair, and not surprisingly (as Israelis can do everything) he was an excellent barber. We finally made our way to Tomer's house for a reunion of both cohorts for a quick havdallah, and then we lay out on the grass, staff and fellows alike to watch one of the greatest movies of the modern century; "The Hebrew Hammer". 

Though it was one of the most hectic and action filled Shabbats in recent memory, the best part of it all was to be together as one family and just hang out in each others company. There was a true feeling of belonging and serenity, and it was in this moment that it was clear how profound an impact Diller has had on all of us. These lifelong friendships that we have forged is insane due to the fact that we had really only spent about two full weeks together over the course of the program. It was if our two groups, were tailored for one another to mesh together seamlessly. This was one of the most meaningful moment of the trip for me so far, on what has been a very special journey that is thankfully only halfway done. 

Love to all back home, and Shavua Tov!

July 26: First Shabbat in Eilat (Kary Pelly)

July 26, 2013

Blog Author: Kary Pelly

Today was the second Shabbat in Israel with our group. We had an interesting day, following the theme of Judaism and Israel in Eilat. To start off the day, we had a cooking contest consisting of different cultural foods that are prepared in homes and restaurants throughout Israel. These delicious foods included falafel, churros, Israeli salad, pita and more. We were graciously hosted at Israeli Fellow Inbar's beautiful home.

Following this, we drove to the local Holocaust Education Centre in which we got the opportunity to learn Jacky's extraordinary Holocaust survival story. We got to see pictures and learn about his family and life. It was very meaningful and insightful because for some, it was their first time listening to a survivor. We learnt about the importance of remembering the Holocaust and the significance of Jacky's story. Next we continued our Jewish driven journey as we travelled to the Netzah Israel Synagogue and experienced a Rabbi's opinion on Judaism in Eliat in the past and present. Today proved to be a truly inspiring and wisdom filled day which was indeed a perfect precursor to the lovely Shabbat dinner and celebration that followed.

July 25: The Kibbutz Experience (Ted Berlovich)

July 25, 2013

Blog Author: Ted Berlovich

As another day in the Israeli Summer Experience has passed, I sit here recalling today's events. The clock slowly ticks as my eyelids become heavier and heavier. And yet, I still ache for what is to come tomorrow. These are the perfect signs that we had yet another successful day.

The day had started with a rather early wake up call, yet rewarded by the experience of a lifetime. The Diller team was honoured with the opportunity to learn about Eilat's interesting Naval Base. The Sargent of the base had prepared a unique presentation that informed us of the Navy's missions and objectives along with the importance of its existence. We learned that the Navy is responsible for the protection of Israel overseas and, in fact, that the sea is the larger border between Israel and its neighbouring countries.

Later this morning, we were driven to the Kibbutz Lotan. We learned that this Kibbutz believes in and commits to the preservation of nature and environmental sustainability. Throughout the tour of Kibbutz Lotan, we were shown how life is made possible for the Eco-friendly kibbutsnikim (Kibbutz members). From creating and learning about seed balls and mud bricks, to understanding how to build structures using the very same mud bricks, our group was inspired and very much interested in this unique way of life.

Upon finishing a delightful lunch hand made by the chefs of Kibbutz Lotan (using only ingredients found on the Kibbutz!), we made our way to the next Kibbutz: Yahel. Immediately we were greeted by a man named Ya-Ya. This aspiring Zionist had demonstrated an interesting perspective on Judaism. He had taught us about the innovation of Judaism over many years and he had also discussed the reformation of the Judaic ideals in the 21st century. Essentially, the strongly opinionated Ya-Ya had shared his perspective on Judaism and what being Jewish meant for him. Interestingly, the conversation had left many of us thinking about our own values, beliefs, and ideas of what it means to be Jewish in the 21st century.

To finish off the day we arrived our final Kibbutz: Ketura. Personally, I found this Kibbutz to be the most exciting and most pleasant to visit. I genuinely was able to connect and understand the ideals and methods of life of this particular Kibbutz. The most fascinating part of the experience was listening to the stories about the Kibbutz itself! The intense bond of the small community evidently demonstrated the rare and magnificent lifestyle of the day to day endeavors of a hardworking kibbutsnik. Plus, it was fairly appropriate, and necessary, to cool off in the community pool!

As this day came to end, so does this blog. Today's planned events, learning about an Eco-friendly lifestyle, a new vision for reforming Judaism in the 21st century, and the simple (yet laborious) daily life of a kibbutsnik, definitely sums as this day in our experience of a lifetime.

July 24: How Far We've Come: Eilat (Hannah Safer-Spiro)

July 24, 2013

Blog Author: Hannah Safer-Spiro

After having breakfast with our Israeli families, we arrived to our meeting spot sleepy-eyed and ready to exchange stories of last night's adventures. Our Israeli leaders started the day off with exercises that left us feeling energized and ready for a fun filled day!

We began our day by the steps of the "Umrashrash" - the place where Eilat was conquered with an improvised flag consisting of a blue shirt and ink. There is a beautiful monument commemorating this moment in Israeli history. We separated into small groups around the monument and discussed our personal connections to Israel and how far each of us would go to protect our country. We talked about our experiences with the IDF and the Canadians specifically discussed its portrayal in the media back home. We were all posed with a very difficult question: if it was not mandatory, would you serve? And furthermore, for Canadians, is there any sense of obligation at all? It is these pressing questions that make the Diller Fellows experience so unique. To wrap up the discussion our Eilat-Eilot fellows prepared IDF 'dog tags' for us that proudly say "Diller Teen Fellows Toronto/Eilat-Eilot".

The afternoon was spent exploring the coral reefs and the peculiar inhabitants of the Read Sea - including sharks! Thankfully this exploration was done behind the safety of the glass exhibits at the famous Underwater Observatory. Our energetic guide was excited to unleash the secrets of the local sea including how the Toad Fish changes colours and how corals survive in nature. Moments later we got to witness the shark feeding - a slightly horrific yet unforgettable experience! We also learned about the imminent danger of extinction to the area's turtles and how something as simple as picking up our trash can ensure they don't mistakingly consume our refuse as a fatal meal. 

After a 4-D movie and a delicious Israeli lunch we headed over to the local University of Marine Biology, an institution that provides top opportunities for individuals to study marine life.

We then returned to our homes for a break from the schedule and naturally most of us headed right to the beach! We then all met again for an incredible private beach party on a secluded part of the beach: there was a full moon, music, dancing, lighting, and tons of amazing food that was being prepared by our group on the barbecue. (We must have consumed about 5 tons of hummus...) We danced to both Hebrew and English songs and taught each other some new dance moves.

It truly was another fabulous day in Eilat - full of adventure, smiles, laughter and meaning. 

Thank you Helen Diller for making this all possible.