This week in Israel has been incredibly meaningful. It began with Yom HaShoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day, when we honor the lives lost during one of the darkest periods in history. Exactly one week later, we observe Yom HaZikaron, Israel’s Memorial Day for fallen soldiers and victims of terror.

Being in Israel during these days of reflection and mourning is truly powerful. On both days, the country pauses for a moment of silence as a siren echoes throughout Israel. Everyone, no matter where they are, stops to remember. It's a moving experience to stand in stillness alongside the entire country. I feel honored to be here, sharing this moment with a group of students, learning and reflecting together. It’s in these moments that I’m reminded of exactly why I chose to come here.

We started the week with an overnight tiyul to the Golan Heights, where we studied the history of Israel’s past wars. One powerful stop was the Valley of Tears, a pivotal site during the Yom Kippur War. We learned about the tank battles fought along the ridges and imagined the unimaginable courage of the soldiers who, with just a few tanks, managed to defeat a much larger Syrian force. We ended the trip with an exhilarating and refreshing water hike, something very unique and fun after such an intense and emotional experience. Back on campus, we returned to our usual school day routine. As Friday arrived, we traveled to Mitzpe Ramon in the Negev Desert to celebrate Shabbat. We started the day with a scenic hike and later visited an animal farm, where we fed and played with alpacas, horses, donkeys, and goats.

Our Friday night service was one of the most memorable yet. We welcomed Shabbat overlooking the Negev with a stunning sunset behind us. Shabbat is always my favorite part of the week, a built-in pause from the chaos, a time to reflect and appreciate where we are and who we’re with. Together with another Muss group, we sang, danced, and prayed, creating a sense of unity and joy. Saturday was calm and relaxing: we lounged on the grass, tanned, and swam in the hotel pool. We ended Shabbat by walking through the darkness along a glowing pathway. Though it was chilly, it felt special.

We concluded with Havdalah, singing, and dancing as one group. These are the moments I treasure most, the ones that remind me of why I’m here and how fortunate I am to share this experience with such an incredible community. The week continued with a shift in tone as we paused to honor the lives lost in Israel’s wars. Last night, we traveled to Latrun to take part in a memorial ceremony, reflecting on the sacrifices made and continuing the legacy of those who gave their lives.

Today, April 30th, we began Yom HaZikaron by hearing deeply personal stories from our teachers and madrichim, gaining a more intimate understanding of how this day touches every Israeli. Whether through a family member or a friend of a friend, everyone has a connection. Later, we joined the Mosenson School on campus for a heartfelt Yom HaZikaron ceremony, observing how Israeli schools mark this solemn day. Being part of these ceremonies has made me feel more connected, not just to Israel’s history, but to its people and culture. This week has deepened my appreciation for the importance of remembrance, reflection, and community. It’s made me realize how much Israel’s past continues to shape its present and how honored I am to witness that firsthand.

Olivia is a high school sophomore at Harpeth Hall in Nashville, Tennessee