A Day of Service and Learning

Yesterday morning we arrived at the community garden at the school with eight hours of work ahead of us. Throughout the day we asked people to remember our kavana, patience, and to be patient while working on their projects, with communication, and patience with each other. We saw this kavana in action while people were working on their prospective projects. Some of the projects that are coming along include mosaics, tire tables, and planting. We observed Yahel students working patiently with Druze students, whom they had not met before. While working, the American students and the Druze students were able to talk openly and talk about religion, Israel, and their daily lives.

Hallie working on the mural

Students and counselors from Mrar working hard in the garden

Later in the day the Yahel students met for a challenging learning discussion about many controversial topics related to Israel. We read a variety of readings that included a passage from Isiah, a Ben Gurion speech, and The Declaration of the Establishment of the State of Israel, while discussing the ideals behind the state of Israel.  We had the chance to discuss whether Israel was a “light unto the nations,” “a land that devours its inhabitants,” or a regular nation, like any other.  This discussion was particularly challenging, after having spent a week in the homes of a minority group in Israel.  Many of us believed that Israel should be a “light unto the nations”, but disagreed on whether this has been accomplished, or will be accomplished in the future. Later in the discussion we read current event articles, which expanded out views of Israel and deepened our understanding of the country. This activity allowed us to take a moment and think about how our opinions have differed after living with Druze families.

Later in the evening, some of the American students with their hosts, got the chance to meet up at one of the Druze houses. During this hang out we were able to share a meal with everybody and also watch a movie. This is just one of countless times we have had the opportunity to connect with our peers in the Druze community over food and culture.  Although we had expected to have very different interests and traditions, time and again we have been struck by how similar we are.  Whether it be taste in movies or favorite pop songs, these students seem more like us than we would have imagined.  We are sad to be leaving this amazing community so soon, but are looking forward to seeing the garden finished and joining with the whole community on Wednesday for a final ceremony.

We had a full day of work yesterday, followed by an in depth learning discussion on the topic of Israeli ideals.  Our eyes have been opened by these discussions, as well as engaging in a cultural exchange with the Druze community.

-Elana Roffer and Elie Leaderman-Bray