Vineyards of the Judean Hills

  I waited a few days to write my review to let my time in Israel sink in. Now, I can honestly say Amir changed my life. He changed the way... read more I look at journalism, my education and my country's role in the world. As an American student journalist, that is saying a lot.

Throughout my ten-day journey across the country, I witnessed the most incredible sites, cultures and people. If I had traveled alone, I would have alluded myself of the intricate history of the young nation. Walking through the back streets of Jerusalem, a
basket waved in the wind, dangling from a pulley system that extended from a lone window. As a solo traveler, I would not have ended up on that street, much less have looked up to see it and even less so, know its story. 

Turns out, the Patriarch Irenaios, formerly appointed to a life commitment as the Patriarch of Jerusalem by the Orthodox Church, has been hiding in his apartment since his appointment was removed. He refused to accept the dismissal and has been receiving supplies from his followers via the basket for the past seven years.

It was the little details like that that made Amir the best tour guide I could've had. He sincerely made my trip.

Amir made my group and I feel a part of an important dynamic that took an active role in engaging with the Israeli community. He was excellent at telling all sides of every story. 

I entered Israel not knowing much about the ground I was walking on. I left with more questions than what I came in with. I left with a deeper understanding of the country's true geopolitical conditions, which were wider than I understood them to be, international precedent and foreign relations.

As an American journalist, I recognize that news is filtered for ease of western consumption. It was incredibly eye-opening to hear Amir speak without sugar-coating, to the situation in the Middle East, The West Bank, The Gaza Strip and how it relates to Israel.

He taught us above all, empathy is paramount. He felt for his Palestinian neighbors and their quality of life. He spoke to the situations for all people living under Israeli regulation despite his personal identification as a Jewish Israeli and American.

Back home, I look forward to sharing what I learned from Amir. Two of my favorite quotes he used was, "A light that lights another loses none of its flame," and, "The mind is not a vessel to be filled but a fire to be kindled." All credit given to James Keller and Socrates, respectiely.

I will never forget what he taught me and how he changed my perspective on the world. Much love to him and his family. He is truly a Jewish Indiana Jones!