A day full of history and politics doesn't sound too fun, unless of course, Diller Teen Fellows planned it. Friday's committee organized a fun filled day compete with debates, education and spying, (oh and of course fun).
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In the beginning of the day we were broken up into groups to debate certain policies in Israel. My group made an awesome argument stating reasons as to why members of the Parliament shouldn't obtain special privileges. Naturally, we won.
We then headed to Shorashim where two of our Dillers live. We had a really interesting talk with two of the founders. It was incredibly fascinating to learn about the history of the area and how it functions today.
The next part of the day was the highlight of my week. We were separated into Americans and Israelis and four volunteers were asked to step out. Edo, Rachel, Yaron, and I stepped outside. We weren't told what the groups inside were doing or what we were going to do. While we were outside, the four of us started talking and taking pictures. It was so fun!! We were out there for awhile and we wanted to know what was going on. So, as the amazing leaders that we are, we decided to spy on the group inside. I got on Rachel's back and attempted to peek inside through the window. With our amazing coordination I proceeded to fall into the bush, with Edo documenting it all on my camera. I don't think I've laughed that much all year.
Once called inside we were taken to our respective groups. I listened to a summary of a story and was asked to repeat it. My version of the story was along the lines of, "There was a bird. He wanted to go to Zion." That was nothing at all like the story I was told...oops.
The actual story was much more complex, but the goal of the activity was to see how language, one of the "5 Legs of the Table" changes from person to person. It was a really interesting activity. We then continued the conversation and discussed the differences between Hebrew and English, specifically in prayer.
We cut the day short to go home and prepare for Shabbat. Maria's family and I headed to her grandparents house for a very large, Russian style Shabbat dinner. I don't think I've ever seen so much food! It was great to see the contrast in the different cultures: my American family versus a Russian Israeli family. Overall, it was really great day and I know I'll take a lot away from it.
--Shoshana Kaplan