By Dylan Young

Before I visited Israel in 2018, I never really thought much about the small but mighty nation. Of course, as a Jew in the diaspora, I knew that it was my Jewish homeland.  I also knew its existence was very controversial in the Middle East, though I never truly understood why.  Thankfully, I understand so much more now. My trip to Israel had the greatest impact on my Jewish identity.  Most importantly, as a Jew, I finally grasped how special and important this nation is.  Through my visit and subsequent educational programs, the controversy of Israel as a Jewish country and the backlash directed towards myself as a Jew became much more understood. As Noa Tishby has stated in her book Israel: A Simple Guide to the Most Misunderstood Country on Earth, "If the Arabs put down their weapons there will be no more war. If Israel puts down her weapons, there will be no more Israel." Even though Israel may have one of the strongest militaries, they are vulnerable 24/7. 

My visit included so many amazing experiences: watching my sister become a Bat Mitzvah at Masada, floating in the Dead Sea, tasting the flavors at the shuk in both Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, and visiting soldiers in Pina Chama.  Perhaps the most impactful part of my Israel experience was visiting the Kotel in Jerusalem. I learned that this sacred place has so many sides to it. I had always pictured a large solid structure enveloping all who stood - but never really understood or connected the life it actually breathed into its visitors. On my first visit, as I rounded the corner and took in the view, it actually appeared solemn.  People hugged and cried when they placed papers into tiny spots with papers overflowing.  I joined hundreds of other people as I placed my hands on the wall, trying to feel something special or powerful.  I wish I could say I did feel something, but that first time, I didn't.  However, on my second visit, I experienced something completely different. We went to the Kotel to welcome in Shabbat.  This time, when I rounded the corner, I saw so many people rocking-out and partying before Shabbos. I danced with complete strangers from all over the world, laughing and singing the songs I learned at camp and Sunday school.  I felt so connected to my faith yet I didn't know most people there. But here we were, singing these songs together, like old friends.  This single experience stood out to me and I understood the magic of this important site. The Jewish faith is truly special; it can link strangers together through its powerful resilience and heritage.

The strong Detroit Jewish community has afforded me so many amazing opportunities.  I've been able to worship freely at Temple Israel.  I've enjoyed my summers at Tamarack.  I've been able to attend public school and not hide my Jewish identity.  My parents have told me that we are fortunate to have these opportunities as Jews and be safe.  They've shared with me that is not always the case for Jews.  I know that when I am living on a college campus, I may be the unfortunate victim of antisemitism.  We've had many discussions about this.  Some may think these conversations may scare me.  They may make me question if being a Jew is worth it.  But I argue, now more than ever, there is nothing more important than being a Jew.  I am a proud Jewish teen and I will never hide that fact.  Israel has taught me to love my religion and everything that comes with it. 

Visiting Israel has completely changed my perspective on what it means to be a Jew. The trip enlightened me as to why this nation is vital to Jews across the world. So much so that I think it should be a requirement that all Jews visit Israel.  There is no way to replicate the connection a visit to Israel can create for Jews in the diaspora to their faith.   Jews can't take Israel for granted.  It is surrounded by many historically hostile nations. At any moment Israel could be under an attack, much like Ukraine is now by neighboring Russia.  Allies around the world are working on ways to help Ukraine. In the event that the same thing occurs to Israel, Jews with their same passion for Israel, can rally up in solidarity for the sake of their Jewish homeland.