Today is the day- our final day on Yad B’Yad. Who would have thought that this day would have come so soon? Our first destination of the day was the Kotel, fitting and appropriate, we were given some free time around the plaza to gather our thoughts and reflect on the time we spent together. Afterwards, we took the obligatory group picture in front of the Kotel, which I’m sure will be shared with many for a long time to come.

With a stop for lunch on Ben Yehuda, the mood in the air was very different than that of our visit two weeks prior. Without the need to rush off and see our friends on Sulam, Machach and JOLT, we can actually say that we enjoyed the company of our own group and really experienced the Ben Yehuda chill at its finest.

With the final banquet only hours away, the preparations were ago. A Hawaiian theme meant that the dress code slightly differed to that of the participants on the daily. Yet on Yad B’Yad acting outside the norm is the norm – therefore no one shy’d away from the bright yellow clothing and flower headbands. The attendance group presentation really did much to encapsulate how far we’ve come on this incredible journey. The banquet was concluded with an emotional highlights video and a final speech from program director, Yoni Steinfeld.

With some reflection I can truly say that the past month has gone by with a flash. Smiling, dancing and having fun all brought us together; even at times when we were running on very little sleep, and also at times where emotions were running on an all time high, it was these moments that contributed to the meaningful summer that we’ve all experienced. While there were standout moments that will be remembered for a lifetime, we must reflect on those long bus journeys where friendships were made, albeit the vast bathroom stops, and the downtime we enjoyed where we talked and chilled together as a group. Its the moments in-between activities and times where we don’t think will have most impact, that have actually helped blossom the relationships that we will take away from this trip.

In closing, words cannot begin describe the thanks and appreciation that must be given to both the Israeli and American staff, who helped make the summer that extra meaningful, special and fun. For the head staff, Yoni, Mimi and Kaz, their work this summer was done at nothing less of 110%, and without them I’m sure we can all agree that this trip would not have been the same, or anything close it. Together, we’re finally here.

Editor-in Chief,

Rafi Kennard