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January 23, 2004

Visit the Holy Land

Letters

Editor: Last summer I finally visited Israel. It was the best time of my life. I went on an amazing five-week program which was run by Young Judea. This program, Biluim Israel, gave me the opportunity to visit Israel with 40 other teenagers from all over Canada. I was one of three people from Vancouver to join this spectacular program.

At first, I had doubts about going to Israel because of all the negative news that is constantly floating around from the media. But I could not pass up this once-in-a-lifetime experience. I had many worries about the security in Israel, but once I arrived there all of my worries vanished. In Israel it felt as if I were in the most secure place in the world. There was security everywhere and there were always soldiers patrolling the streets. Our group also had two security guards and a medic, who quickly became good friends with everyone.

Furthermore, on Biluim Israel I met so many great people from all over Canada who I still keep in touch with to this day. I also still talk to the many friends that I made in Israel.

Israel is the most beautiful place in the world. After hearing about Israel for my whole life, I was more than excited to be there and tour the country. One of the most memorable occasions during my stay was visiting the Western Wall on Tisha b'Av. It was an incredible sight – seeing thousands of people gathered around it. I was extremely moved and happy to be a part of the whole experience.

This trip has definitely made a great impact on me and my plans for the future. I intend to return there many times and hopefully live there one day. I highly recommend trips to Israel for youth and anyone who is thinking about it. I guarantee that it will be the best experience of your life.

David Pullmer
Vancouver

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