As I patiently waited to hear whether I would be accepted to attend the trip to the Sandor Scheiber Gimnazium school in Budapest, time dragged on. I really hoped to get in. Ever since the fall when the students from Budapest came to Beth Tfiloh, I knew I wanted to apply. I value my religion and wanted to learn more in a new environment while helping others find love for Judaism as well. Therefore, I applied.
Not only did I apply to share my love and understanding of Judaism, but also to create new friendships with people from BT and Budapest. I recalled that the students who visited BT in the Fall knew a lot of English and came to America in hopes of learning more about Judaism due to their limited abilities to outwardly express their religion. Meanwhile, I am constantly surrounded by Judaism and wanted to help them find a similar connection. I participate in many Jewish teen organizations in addition to attending BT, a Jewish Day School. Judaism is a large part of my life and I want others to be able to find pride in their religion as well.
Within Judaism, many people observe the religion at different levels. Since the level of observance ranges so much, the religion is so unique. Whether a Jew keeps kosher, celebrates the holidays; goes to a Jewish Day School; or says brachot, they are still viewed as a Jew which is something I admire. The religion has so many different ideals and values, which is so interesting. When I observe Judaism, I feel a sense of pride to know that I am carrying on traditions that have been followed for many years.
I am so thankful for the many opportunities that BT has to offer. Sitting in the preprogramming sessions for the past few weeks in order to plan for the trip has already boosted my excitement. I have been able to learn more about Hungary’s political and economic history, ways to teach American culture to children in Budapest who don’t know English, and how to further prepare for this once in a lifetime opportunity. I can’t wait to go to Hungary, share my passion for Judaism, and take in everything this trip has to offer.~Samantha
