Written by Eliana Oshinsky
Wow! What an amazing first Shabbat in Israel! Shabbat was ushered in with the beautiful melody of Friday night prayer. It was truly incredible having the opportunity to daven with important members of Hatzalah and other inspiring people. Later in the evening we had “circle time” where we shared personal reasons why each of use came on this incredible program. Some of us want to be doctors when we are older and some of us want to learn the amazing skills but the main theme that was mentioned throughout was the will to save lives. On Shabbat day we had the opportunity to hear from a head of Haztalla in Israel. He spoke to us about the reason he wanted to become an EMT and why it was important for him to save lives. He had witnessed a young girl hit by a bus and no one around was able to help. At that time he was not medically trained but after that moment he knew he wanted to become an EMT so he would never be a by stander again. This was such an inspiring story to all of us and showed us why we truly are meant to be on this program. Later in the day we were split into groups to hear some inspiring words from our advisors. In my group we learned the importance of teshuva- repentance. G-d is so forgiving and even if we sin, it is never too late to repent. I think this idea ties in nicely with the purpose of this program. Just as G-d gives us a second chance, we as future EMT’s will hopefully give people a second chance to live. G-d “saves” us and brings us back each day and we have the chance to save other people as well. Saturday night we took a trip to Mamilla mall for food and shopping. It was beautiful to see the string lights hanging above our heads as we walked down the road. From zemirot- song, to learning, and a few fun games the Rescue Israel team definitely bonded a lot this Shabbat. I can not wait to continue on this journey and have the opportunity to save lives.