Before heading off for Rosh Hashanah break, we had the chance to take on Yam L’Yam, a hike from the Mediterranean Sea to the Kineret. We started on Tuesday, and we quickly learned that the hardest part was pushing through the heat and the aching legs. By the second day, people were already dreading having to start hiking again. But that’s exactly when the most meaningful part of Yam l’Yam really began.

Instead of complaining or sulking like any regular group of teenagers might, my classmates and I shifted our perspective. We started cheering each other on and powering through the struggle together. Hearing my friends cheer for one another made me realize why we were doing this long hike in the first place.

By the time we reached the Kineret, the overwhelming joy and pride we all felt—in ourselves and in each other—was a feeling I’ll never forget. Overall, I think Yam L’Yam was an amazing experience. Even though it was tough and the food wasn’t exactly the highlight, the atmosphere and the people made up for all of it.

I feel truly blessed to be at Muss with such an incredible group. I hope to continue having moments like the ones we shared on Yam L’Yam and to keep growing the friendships I’ve started here.

Amaya Lior Hefer is a 15-year-old sophomore at Hudsonville High School in Hudsonville, MI.