I have to say that Israel is both warmer and brighter than where I live now. Aside from missing my boyfriend, I didn't feel depressed or down at all. I wouldn't even need my light box if I was there more often. I also have to say that it is quite a peaceful place. There are not bombs going off left and right. There aren't people being stabbed left and right in the streets. Yes, there is extra security and soldiers, but that's just daily life.
I saw such beautiful things. In Jerusalem, we went to the Austrian Hospice in the heart of Jerusalem. It has a garden and it was so peaceful in the middle of the bustling old city. I bought myself a gorgeous enameled mezzuzah for my door. There is also an amazing culinary scene in Israel. I had some great food, especially falafel.
I went down to Kibbutz Sa'ad, which is about 5 miles from Gaza. There were amazing programs going on there. They have a dairy farm where the adults work. There were also different smaller animals that the children take care of like peacocks and goats. There is also a sewing building where many of the retired women make felt books for kids that teach them about holidays as well as how to count, match colors and tie shoes. The people there did not live in fear, they live their lives.
My favorite day was Purim. It was like Halloween in the States, but amped up. Everyone dresses up and there is music, games and parades. Then I went to the beach. I got seashells and walked in the Mediterranean Sea. It was a little cold, but the waves were pretty. My dad was sitting on the beach watching and singing to Gaga. It was a brilliant experience.
While I was there I made some decisions. The first was that I needed a career change. I've been in retail pharmacy for almost 3 years and the truth is that I don't like the public that much. The second is that I will have a committed relationship with my boyfriend. This seems to be going well as he said he loved me for the first time while I was away. The third is that I will get healthy. Exercise is my biggest challenge for this part, but I'm sure I will be able to get it done. I have a new perspective on myself and have recharged batteries. Time to make the changes.
