Hello from an exhausted group of kids!
Last night we slept out on the Masada Camp in which we were surprised by our Israelis for a surprise visit. We slept out under a full moon and a sky full of stars. We were also able to relax and reflect within the beautiful scenery of Southern Israel. Through catching up and playing games, none of us managed to go to sleep before 2 am with a 4 am wake up approaching. Regardless, we all woke up ready and eager to take on the intense climb to the top of Masada.
While some of us ran up to the top and others managed to inch up the mountain, all 40 teens were able to enjoy and view the sunrise at the top of Masada. Obviously, many pictures were taken and many hugs and smiles were exchanged. As the sun was at a full blaze, our tour guide, Chilit, explained to us the history of Masada and the history that took place on this mountain. While it seems like noon, we managed to climb up Masada, learn the history, and climb down; it was only eight in the morning. After that, we enjoyed a small breakfast and then we headed to Ein Gedi spa, where most of us got to experience the Dead Sea and sulfur showers for the first time. Another new experience was being surrounded by the smell of raw eggs from the sulfur. With floating Diller bodies all over the Dead Sea, and bodies covered in mud, we all had a fabulous time experiencing and enjoying the Dead Sea.
With Israelis and American packed into a moderately sized tour bus, we headed to the Bedioun Tents, where would we spend our last night out before heading to the International Congress where all of the Diller chapters will meet and discuss current events and gain leadership skills with people. Once we got settled in, we all participated in a text study talking about the importance of knowing how it is like to be a visitor and also to be a host. After our study, we were able to participate in a welcoming from the people of the village, understanding the culture and life of these people. Later, we went on a camel ride! We each were paired up with a friend and took a twenty-five minute ride around the town in which we stayed in.
After our camel ride, we all went into groups of five and went to eat a very ethnic meal, which was delicious! None of us have ever experienced a meal like this one. Parents, we all feel so lucky and fortunate to be on this trip with a great group of people, and although one week is over, we still have two weeks of opportunity, educations, and friendships to grow. So for now, good night!
Love,
Your Pittsburgh Diller Teen Fellows
By: Eli Gelernter
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