AIPAC reflection

I went to Israel when I was 10 years old. I will never forget seeing the Western Wall. I will never forget swimming in the Dead Sea for the first time. I will never forget celebrating Shabbat in Tel Aviv. I will never forget all of the amazing experiences I had there. My connection to Israel and Judaism strengthened. It was clear now. Israel was my home, my family’s home, and the home of the Jewish people. Israel meant the world to me. Time passed. My parents asked if I wanted to go to AIPAC. I said “Yes.” I had no idea what to expect, but I was excited to learn more about Israel, and rekindle the flame of my Israeli connection.

AIPAC was overwhelming, grand, and beautiful. There were lectures on policy, college, the role of women, and so much more. Regardless of the lecture topic, it was clear that all of the speakers cared deeply about Israel. Through all of the lectures and discussions, I felt even more connected to Israel. I was proud to be Jewish.

I was so impressed with all of the Israeli innovations, and the way Israelis are constantly striving to improve the world. AIPAC showed me that Israelis think outside of the box — they are not only looking to improve the problems of today, they are thinking about how to solve the problems of the future.

The AIPAC motto: “Many Voices, One Mission” stood with me. It was amazing to see how people from all walks of life joined together to support one cause: supporting and protecting Israel. The AIPAC community has people from all different religions, colleges, states, and countries. With a community this connected, Israel will always be strong.

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