The Wish at the Wall Shabbos in Jerusalem…one word: WOW!
How can one describe an experience so surreal?
Driven to the Kosel before Shabbos began, we were mesmerized by the usual Friday night tumult that greeted us. Standing closely together, we were spiritually uplifted as familiar tunes of Kabbalos Shabbos began. Although we were amongst so many others who were engrossed in their own prayers, and grouped prayers, when we began, our energy was magnetic as so many were drawn to us. The unity of brotherhood was tangible as the songs of our Camp Simcha Counselors merged with the holiness of the Kotel. Tear-filled eyes and heartfelt prayers followed as we made our very first Wish, at the Wall.
The way home was a scene like no other. Envision 13 wheelchairs being pushed up the hills (mountains) of Jerusalem and across the cobblestone roads that our ancestors once walked. Through the Old City of Jerusalem, counselors rolled wheelchairs, in what was a two-person job; And then…counselors pushed counselors who rolled wheelchairs, in what was a two-person job. Constant rotation, beads of sweat, and heavily breathing counselors – boys and girls alike; campers, smiling from their adventurous bumpy, windy, and jolting rides; and parents who’d had the opportunity to walk home with one another; arrived at our beautifully situated hotel, overlooking the ancient walls.
Shabbos flew by as we ate, sang, danced, laughed, and most of all, enjoyed one another’s company. We molded together by the beginning of our shared experiences. Shacharis, with the usual harmonies was inspiring as our campers received aliyahs and kibbudim. After the lively Shabbos day meal, a beautiful historic walk preceded our intimate Shlosh Seudos, where each participant had an opportunity to introduce the person they are travelling with. It was incredibly empowering for both parent and child to hear the one another’s thoughts.
As Shabbos came to a close, holiness carried over as we made our way to the homes of some pious Rabbanim, Reb’ Nosson Tzvi Finkel and the Tulner Rebbe. We received words of courage and magnificent blessings.
The night winded down after we enjoyed a pizza and ice cream Melave Malka. We went to sleep anticipating what the week has in store for us.
[singlepic id=1861 w=620 h=540 float=center]