Going into my birthright trip this winter, I knew little about Israel except what I had been told by the media and through political and historical lessons. I knew what it meant to be an American Jew both culturally and religiously, but I had no idea what Jewishness meant in a greater sense or with a world wide perspective. I do not think I really understood Judaism outside of my hometown. I certainly did not know what Israel would be like or who Israelis were, except that they were usually characterized on television and in Jewish history lessons as tough or aggressive, especially in regard to their Arab neighbors. I also did not know any of the students who would be accompanying me to Israel, except that we all attended The University of Wisconsin-Madison.
What I learned at the end of my 10 day trip blew my mind. I made friendships with my fellow students on the trip that will last my college career and probably beyond. I met Israelis that made me proud to be Jewish and gave me a greater understanding of what being a Jew living in the 21st century means, and how important it is to be Jewish not for religious purposes but for cultural ones. I made friends with several Israeli soldiers who were some of the most genuinely wonderful people I have ever known. I learned that Israelis defy all stereotypes purported of them or of Jews worldwide. I think that the Israeli soldiers and people I met on this trip will remain friends with me and with my fellow students for a very long time. Going into birthright I was wary that I was embarking on a biased propaganda trip that would glorify Israel and perpetuate an image of supreme Jewish power in the Middle East. I was wrong.
I was fascinated and humbled to learn just how compassionate and caring Israel as a whole really is. As much as people worldwide protest and act for peace in the Middle East, I can firmly say that Israelis and Arabs living in the region want it infinitely more than anyone else. That was the most important thing I learned. Besides the beauty of the region and the rich and diverse terrain, I learned that Israelis are a peaceful people. What does not make international headlines is how active Israelis--even in the military--fight for peace and cultural cooperation between multiple faiths and peoples. That is also what made me most proud of being Jewish after the trip. Ultimately, I learned more in 10 days traveling Israel than I ever had in years of watching current events or being politically involved.
Birthright was easily the most powerful and memorable experience of my life. The country I discovered, the things I did and the people I met--both Israeli and fellow Badgers--have changed my life forever. Birthright was a wonderful opportunity, and I would urge anyone considering birthright to stop hesitating and to say yes to be best 10 days of your life.
- Jake Warsaw '13
UW Hillel's Winter 2012 Birthright Trip
(Jake, 6th from the right at the Western Wall, Jerusalem)
See pictures, tweets and blog posts from Jake's trip. If you are interested in going on the Summer 2012 UW Hillel Birthright Trip fill out this interest form.