Back home, the Jewish holidays were much smaller and familial.

As I sit on this hammock, staring at  my reflection in the computer screen, writing this blog, I think back to all the memories I made over the past few days during the holiday celebrations here in Hod HaSharon.

Back home, the Jewish holidays were much smaller and familial. Everybody knew each other and was much closer. It was a blast, but it never really had a "Wow" factor. That all changed this year. The community I felt when with my friends - my new family - was something I relished and will hold dear to my heart. Just a few days ago Yom Kippur, which is usually extremely boring and serious for me, was one of the best memories I have made as of recently. I remember laughing, smiling, and of course, melting alongside everyone as we had bites of food for the first time in twenty-five hours. It's honestly indescribable the sheer amount of fun I had during such a serious holiday! I rediscovered some of my favorite pastimes and learned many new games from around the States (and even from Canada!) The holidays in Israel are such a blast that I can't see myself going back to the holidays in the states anymore. It's THAT much fun.

This is Noam Benartzy, jumping with joy over the Israeli Holidays during his Stephen Muss Impact Fellowship.

Wishing you the best regards.