Dear NCSY TJJ Lion Pride,

It is surreal to say but we have reached the final day of our journey here in Israel.

This morning, our tour guides, Yoni and Ariel, got to give over their closing remarks about Israel as our home land. Following our morning program, we had an opportunity to do some last minute shopping in Jerusalem before we headed back to our hotel to shower and pack for the airport.

Our last program was the goodbye Banquet, a powerful experience. The Lion Pride understands that what we experienced and learned over the summer was not meant to be left in Israel. The friendships we built and the commitments to growth are aspects that cannot be left behind. We spent the summer investing in ourselves and building community to bring a sense of pride and conviction back to America and the Banquet was that moment for us as a family and as a community to share together. We gave out books and saluted teens on their accomplishments before saying see you later, because it is not goodbye. The tears flowed as we loaded the bus to head for the airport. We both (Manu and Avi) thought it would be fitting to quickly visit the Kotel one last time, so we did, and it was quite powerful.

We are now sitting here in the Airport ready to head back to the states and there is so many emotions and so much to express. For now, we just want to thank you, to you the parents, for giving your child the opportunity to have this experience, to have the ability to connect to their identity and their homeland, words cannot describe. Thank you.

We look forward to seeing you when we arrive in a few short hours.

Best,

Avi & Manu

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