When asked, I often say that when I visit Israel, each step uncovers another century. For example, today we began in the twenty-first century, listening to the story of the heroic firefighters in the Birya Forest combating the fires of the 2006 Lebanese War and the ensuing reforestation by the JNF and dedicated volunteers. Our next stop was the twentieth century story of Josef Trumpeldor and the seven hehitzim who died in the defense of their settlement of Tel Hai. Their sacrifice inspired the heroism of those who defend the land to this very day. The day finished at Tel Dan with a hike through the history from twentieth century (CE), illegal Jewish immigration, back to the tenth century (BCE) evidence of the northern kingdom’s biblical transgressions. Every CAARI day reveals more of the State and every revelation binds me more deeply to the Land. My personal connection includes my dad’s stories as a helutz in teh 1920’s and my maternal uncle’s family history spanning ten generations. Yet, I have never felt as close to the land as these last few weeks in CAARI:teaching eager children, listening to dynamic speakers and touring unique sites. Each day and every step draws me to my own story, to the depths of my feelings forging on ever stronger bond to Israel and to the Land.
Paula Silver (Feb. 22, 2012)
“Me, too” said Lou Silver
Pictures of Paula and Lou with CAARI!
