After a very long trip, I arrived in Israel on Monday afternoon, and the week has flown by. We started by meeting the staff, getting to know the group of my classmates, and had an introduction to our classes.  On Wednesday, we went on our first field trip to Tel Gezer, which is an archaeological site with the remains of a Canaanite city as well as the location of the oldest Hebrew documents including Jewish calendar.  That night, we went to a concert in town. We ended the week with our first Shabbat. Although it has been less than a week since we have been together, I feel like I have already become close with all my classmates.  I have already done so much, but know this is a sliver of what is to come and be accomplished.

I have carved out some goals for myself. I know how fortunate I am to be able to spend 4 months in Israel so I am setting a goal to be more mindful of the present moment. I’m so incredibly lucky to be here in Israel and I don't want to waste any more time being involved in pointless drama, worrying about what I’m missing out on at home, or scrolling through my phone for hours on end.  I want to cherish and create memories that will last a lifetime.

My second goal is to leave my comfort zone.  Growth comes from stepping outside one's familiar experience and having the courage to try new things. Even if I don't enjoy every new thing, I know I will be happy that I was brave enough to do it. Lastly, I want to manage my goals so that I can actually say that I met them. If I set goals and then don’t make any attempt to reach them, then I know that when I leave, my biggest regret would be not trying to better myself as a person.  Shavua Tov, wishing you all a good week.