One Year Later- Reflections from Daniel

This trip was one of if not the most memorable, most moving, most spiritual, and most educational experiences of my life. Not only did I have more than a ton of fun, I also was strengthened spiritually. Learning more about the life and events that occurred during the time of our Lord Jesus Christ really opened my eyes. Now that I have learned so much more from the trip, I feel closer to God. So you could say that this trip was also and bonding time with God. If the future people who are going on this trip are worried that all it is is visiting churches and praying a lot, they are mistaken and should worry. Yes we did visit quite a number of churches, but we also visited many ancient and fascinating historical sites fro biblical time, swam in the Dead Sea, and had quite a bit of free time where we could also get see the modern day Israel. Jerusalam for me was my favorite city of them all.

Now, I don't know if the kids who will be going next year heard or should be told, but there was a bad part of the trip. However, I feel, as scary as it was, that it was also a learning experience. So the kids should not worrry. It is very unlikly that it will happen again. Just a couple days ago, I saw a news clip of Palestinean kids from the West Bank who had never seen the ocean before, be taken to the beach on Bat Yam where we were, and have a blast playing in the water! It was very nice and moving to see. All in all, this trip will stay with me for the rest of my life. It has produced hopfully life long relationships both here in Wasington, but also over in Israel. The people who were on this trip with me all hold a special place in my heart and I thank them for the priviledge and honor of going on this trip with them. for all the great times, and sharing such fond memories. The memories are great, but the lasting impression it leaves is just as great, if not greater. This is an opportunity of a lifetime, one that may never come again, and should be taken advantage of. I think about the trip frequently and wish to go back someday. I cannot express enough how gratful I am to God and to everyone else who made this trip possible for this opportunity. Thank you!

Peace to all,

Daniel Perrine