By Michael Blanchard,
Senior Director of Marketing/Member Experience,Weinstein JCC
In Israel, where ancient stories blend with modern life, there’s a tale of strength and connection. Last May, I joined 10 JCC peers from different North American cities on a journey through this historic land.
Every step showed us layers of history and deep belief.
From Oscar Schindler’s grave to old messages carved into rocks, Israel echoes with stories of endurance and faith. Its landscape shows a people shaped by centuries of struggles and victories.
As we traveled, the mix of old and new painted a vivid picture of its rich heritage. The past and present merged, creating a story that goes beyond time.
In a warm welcome letter from Dr. Andi Meiseles, Director of our Martin Pear Fellowship, Israel was described as a land full of history and fascination. It didn’t take long for me to understand the depth of those words.
As a JCC professional, I wasn’t just watching. I was a link between Israel and my community back home. Every encounter, from singing and dancing during Shabbat at the Western Wall, to talks with families tied to the land, taught me more about Israel’s story.
A highlight was cooking at the home of Mohammed Darawshe and his family.
Mohammed, an expert on Jewish-Arab relations and an advocate for coexistence, shared valuable insights. Our talks showed the diverse mix of Israeli society and the power of working together.
This ethos aligns seamlessly with the Weinstein JCC’s mission to foster an inclusive space where individuals from all backgrounds can forge connections. In the words of my friend and JCC board member, Cullen Seltzer, “By doing so, we dismantle barriers, dispel apprehensions, and cultivate meaningful relationships.”
The following day, we paid a visit to Givat Haviva, a nonprofit and educational center in Israel.
Givat Haviva is committed to fostering harmony and mutual understanding between Jewish and Arab communities through workshops, seminars, and cultural activities. Their aim is to nurture dialogue and collaboration, promoting a future of peace and equality among all citizens.
During our visit, we had the opportunity to reconnect with Mohammad Darawshe, the organization’s strategy director, and gain insight into their vision for a society based on principles of respect, trust, pluralism, and equal opportunity for all.
Another highlight of the trip was my early morning runs. Waking up well before our daily schedule began at 8 am meant sacrificing precious hours of sleep each night, but the experience was worth every moment.
They let me see Israel’s different sides, from busy cities to quiet neighborhoods. Running with locals, I got a taste of daily life and saw the world through their eyes.
These runs let me explore Israel’s varied terrain, from sandy beaches in Tel Aviv to ancient sites in Jerusalem. This hands-on experience gave me a deeper understanding of the country’s rich tapestry of culture and geography.
With the shadow of October 7 and the ongoing war ever-present, we also took time to visit the south of Israel to hear stores of those who experienced firsthand the horrors of the attacks.
By hearing their stories, we were reminded of the need to understand and empathize in our quest for lasting peace. Their voices, filled with both sadness and optimism, reminded us of the unbreakable human resolve and the powerful impact of unity in tough times.
In the wake of my journey, I find solace in the words of Haim Gouri, who eloquently articulated, “I didn’t know your landscape could be traversed like this at all. Or that I would see your features so resemble my own.” Thinking about Gouri’s words, I’m reminded of how travel changes us. It’s not just about going places. It’s about finding ourselves. The places we see reflect what’s inside us, showing how we’re all connected as people.
Reflecting on my experiences, I’m eager for what lies ahead. Israel, with its resilience in the face of adversity, has left a profound impression on me. Despite the challenges it faces, the people I encountered exuded a remarkable strength and determination.
Yet, this journey has also underscored the complexity of Israel’s story. Like any nation, it grapples with its own set of issues and imperfections. However, it is precisely this dynamic nature that makes it so captivating. Israel is a land in constant flux, where every corner holds a new lesson to be learned and every encounter offers fresh insights.
As I look to the future, I embrace this ongoing journey of discovery—a journey that acknowledges the realities of a nation while celebrating its enduring spirit and capacity for inspiration.
For no country is without its flaws, yet it is in acknowledging and confronting these imperfections that true growth and resilience are found.
Now, I feel like I’m part of a bigger Jewish community. Being a Pear Fellow helps me strengthen that bond.
I can’t wait to infuse the vibrant spirit of Israel into our JCC in ways that are both innovative and significant.
