I so clearly remember arriving at Ben Gurion and being met by Tal, Melanie and Ilana it is as if it was just last week, and yet it simultaneously feels like a lifetime ago. Each section has been so distinct, living in such different environments and under such varying conditions that it's hard to believe I was on the same program then.
Today and tomorrow are blocked out in the schedule as cleaning and packing days. We've all sort of been procrastinating (partly because it's thoroughly ridiculous that they're asking us to pack 6 days before we leave).
It's a very bittersweet time for everyone. Many are looking forward to going home- they've had their year, they've had their fun, but now they're looking forward to going back to their friends and lives back in the States.
For me, it's more bitter than sweet. I can't describe how much I've fallen in love with this country. I feel more comfortable and at home here than in the country I've lived in all my life.
I think I once bought a magnet at a tourist shop years ago thinking it had a cute phrase. Now I really mean it:
I love New York but Jerusalem is my home.
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