It's hard to believe that I have had the pleasure of living and volunteering in Israel for the last 10 months. As I stood on the bima, having my bat mitzvah, just over 10 years ago at Congregation Ner Tamid on Emerson, I never imagined that it would be just the beginning of my Jewish identity. When I first came to Israel it was quite apparent that you were either dati (religious) or chiluni(secular). It appeared everyone was one extreme or the other. The reform and conservative communities seemed to be lost. Throughout the year I have had the opportunity to experience and understand the Jewish spectrum that stirs in Israel. During my time in Kiryat Gat I met with a Reform congregation from Chicago. It was wonderful to see them and to speak with them about the expanding communities both in Israel and America. Our Jewish homeland is made up of a mosaic of Jewish peoplehood. From Morocco, to Ethiopia, to France; from Ultra Orthodox, religious zionist, and secular. Although often it feels like there is an internal struggle to find a place for each Jewish individual, in the end, "klal Israel - all of Israel" will welcome Jews from all over into their homes.I spent the majority of my year living in the South of Israel, Be'er Sheva, Kiryat Gat, and finally Kibbutz Ketura (near Eilat.) Growing up in Las Vegas, this has made me feel right at home, from one desert to another. I always knew Judaism was important to me. After 10 months in Israel I understand it is what makes me who I am and is a part of every fibre in my body. I look forward to coming back to Las Vegas and sharing what I have learned about our homeland with our home.
