Tag: Beth Tfiloh Students Beth Tfiloh
Shabbaton Divrei Torah
Aviva R and Abby O – Beth Tfiloh Students
Jews from all different backgrounds and religious practices came together on October 7th, and have remained united in the ...
They just left…
They just left. It’s been about an hour and I’m still crying. Crying because it’s over. The bond that was formed will still be everlasting but it’s still different. We will never stop talking to each other but there is something different. A good different and a bad different.
I’ll start with the good (everybody loves the good). The bond we made is still here and will forever always be here. I will forever love my Budapest friends (right now I’m trying to convince my parents to allow me to visit them over the summer!). The bond as I mentioned previously is everlasting. It’s the small moments that mean the most (as much as the programmed stuff helped us bond, it was when we were alone, being kids that helped strengthen the bond most). One of my favorite moments happened today (although there are so many and you are gonna hear a lot of them so…get ready). Today we had a farewell meal. During the meal, I was sitting next to my good friend (very good 
friend, because I love them all and it feels like we’ve been friends forever), Simon. I had been wearing Simons scarf (it is black and very comfy) since the Shabbaton. But today, I also had on his black beanie, his black sunglasses, and his black jeans (and fuzzy) jacket. Suffice to say, I had become Simon. And to add the cherry on top, he had on my red and black fuzzy jacket. This is just another example of us being kids. Us bonding in the way kids are meant to, by being silly and wearing each other’s clothing (I really love that scarf).
The bad moments aren’t actually bad, they are just really (really, really) sad. The farewell dinner is exactly as it sounds. Saying goodbye (but not forever). After the meal, where we all talked and had our last bit of fun came the sad part. Saying goodbye was the hardest thing I had to do. Like I mentioned it an hour later and I still have tear after tear leaking down my face. But as much as it was sad, it showed everyone present the strength of our bond. Nobody wanted to be separated. There was talk of running and hiding in a closet to miss the planes so they wouldn’t have to leave (of course it was only talk). The hugs really made the tears fall. I must have hugged everybody twice. I was just standing there leaning into the hug from my newly (not so new, we were also friends in March) made friend, just crying. I was physically shaking with sobs. And even though we were hugging and trying to comfort each other it was still horribly sad. Sad that we had to leave. Sad that words weren’t enough. But that sadness is what was meant to be there. SOS is meant to make bonds like this. As much as nobody liked leaving and being the ones left, it was a necessity. The program was made for us to form the bond that made us want to hide our friends so they wouldn’t leave. The program was made for us to stay after they had left still crying (at least I was…still am actually) and talk about how we will stay connected through the time we are not together. We came up with a plan (but shhh…it’s a secret…for now) to keep us in touch (and maybe even still pray together every once in a while). So as sad as it was (and it’s heartbreakingly sad) it’s also a great opportunity to continue to share this bond (and make it stronger even though it doesn’t really need to be because it’s so strong now).
Now I told you I would share some of the little moments so after all that sad talk here is a funny one.
During the first night of dinner, I was trying to pour myself a cup of water (key word…trying), I spilled the water however. Next (same night) a new pitcher of water was placed on the table and in trying to move it I made some splash over the top. That was night one. I’ll skip the many other spills I had and go into the two most important. I had a cup of tea in the davening room. While picking it up I dropped it all into the carpet and my shoes (newish shoes). I cleaned the spill up of course but they got a little stained. Now this morning (Sunday morning) I was having a cup of passion tea. And surprise, surprise, I spilled the tea. It got all over the table and my shoes. I was so scared my shoes would stain. But thankfully they only have a little bit of color. But Glynis told me something amazing. It was along the lines of don’t worry about it, it shows you were here. And now whenever I look at my stained Tim’s I’ll know when it happened and all the feelings that were there.
My last moment was staying up until three am last night. Except I didn’t stay up. I fell asleep on one of my friends. And to show how bonded we are, they didn’t wake me up, they didn’t move me. I was allowed to sleep for a few hours on this person while they just sat there and talked with the people around us. It was a moment where everybody felt the bond. Because at three am were (really them) were all awake and just taking (I heard from a friend what happened while I was asleep). And despite being asleep, I still felt it. I felt the connection that Alan and Glynis made possible.
I cannot, and never will be able to thank them enough. They brought us together. They made out connection possible. And they encourage us to do what we want. For that, I am forever grateful for those two amazingly wonderful humans.-Lily G., Beth Tfiloh student
From a different perspective
Last time I wrote the blogs from a different perspective. Last time I was in Budapest, I was the traveler, I was the one with jet lag. This time, however, I am the host. I have somebody staying in my house. I get to show people around my city. And most importantly I got in touch with my Judaism once again.
I’m not going to lie. After getting back from the trip there, for a few weeks was more in touch than ever before. But after a few weeks, I lost that touch. Now, however, I’m realizing how lucky I am. How lucky I am to be in America, where I can practice freely.
During this morning Shabbats praying, there was an option for an alternative prayer. In this, we talked about what the SOS program means to us. There were so many responses that showed how important this program is for all of us. My take on the program is that it breaks down barriers. In the end, we are all teenagers and it amazes me that this program allows us (teenagers from two different countries) to get along like we’ve known each other our whole lives.
The first day, it was around 8:45 pm when the buses came from the airport. The second they emerged from the bus it was like it’s hadn’t been a year. A year since we had last seen each other. Everybody was just hugging and smiling. There was no unhappy face in that crowd. It was amazing.
The week passed so quickly. I can’t believe it’s almost over. These past two days we have been on a Shabbaton. It had been fantastic. Like I mentioned earlier, we are just teenagers. On Friday night, for example, we stayed up until like 2 am just talking and goofing around. Despite all that we all go through personally we are still in the end teenagers. At dinner, we played pranks on each other. Waters were salted. I would make a very sugary tea (because I needed the energy to stay awake) it would get passed around to be tasted. Because again (I will never be able to say this enough) we are just teenagers!! Teenagers who learn from each other. I have learned to appreciate my Judaism more. How privileged I am to be able to practice mine. I used to take it for granted. I would get bored in my Jewish classes. Now I see it in a whole new light. I feel more in touch with my Judaism than ever before.
Tonight for example. (After Shabbat ended of course) we all sat around in a rec room watching a movie. We all agree fed on the movie and relaxed on each other watching a movie. And when the movie ended some people headed to different places. But as I am typing this now, I’m sitting on a couch in a dark room watching “Pitch Perfect 2” with around 11 people. Some of us on the couch, others on the floor and some just in chairs pushed right up against each other. I couldn’t have asked for a better end to this week. We ended it like kids. Just watching TV, or listening to loud (very, very loud) music, playing ping pong, or just talking. As mentioned many times, we are just teenagers. Except we are all contracted through a sense of community that SOS brings us.
I am forever grateful for this program and for Alan and Glynis who have brought us all together. And for helping create this everlasting friendship and bond.
-Lily G.
Reflection on Budapest
It is now approximately two weeks past our departure from Budapest. I have had a lot of time to reflect and think about all the wonderful memories and friends I made. I am happy to report that I keep in touch with all my peers from SSG, and everyday we relive the happy, laughable, and exciting moments.
Never once, in a million years would have I ever imagined getting the opportunity to be a part of this incredible experience. The Morim Limmud project was truly a once in a lifetime opportunity and I can’t even begin with the event to start with. However, I guess I do have to choose one, so I will explain the feelings I felt after seeing my family when I came home and what I miss the most. I am very lucky to have such supportive parents in my life. No matter how unachievable it may seem, my parents always push me to exceed my limits and flourish in new situations. However, my parents and I both knew that it is a big risk to send me to a foreign country by myself and without their guidance. Furthermore, I knew that I would be able to handle all the responsibility while having the time of my life. I cannot express the amount of joy and pride my parents felt as I walked through the airport terminal, with only one and a half hours of sleep in the past two days and a smile from ear to ear on my face. Hugs and kisses were shared, and I could not wait to tell them all about my experience.
Coming back to school on Monday was both exciting, yet challenging. Although I got around ten hours of sleep the previous night, I was still seven hours ahead of what the actual time was in America. When I came into school it was around lunchtime, and to my surprise I was greeted by a swarm of my best friends. Answering questions and sharing memories, I was enjoying myself. However, that all changed as I heard the bell for the next period. Little did I know the rest of the four hours in my school day would be one of the most challenging it had ever been. I could barely keep my eyes half open, let alone stay awake. I had no drive to focus, nor did I have the ability too. However, I got through the day and I am thankful for my friends because, without them, I would have lost my mind and totally forgot about my experience.
Looking back, I learned many things. However, the main lesson I took away from my experience would be that no matter where an individual is in their life, they must always stay true to who they are because that is the only person you want people to meet you as. I volunteered to travel to a totally different country, not knowing the language, people, or even any plans that I would participate in. However, I knew that if I stayed true to my caring, funny, and optimistic personality, I was sure to find some people who I connected with. Although this was definitely the case, I was so astonished to see that all the students from SSG were not only willing to meet everyone and connect but also wanted to connect on an extremely meaningful level and make memories which will last a lifetime. I appreciate all the planning and commitment that the faculty at SSG and Beth Tfiloh did to accomplish this program, and I especially thank SOS International for allowing me to embark on this journey of a lifetime. ~ Ethan
If We Don’t Do Anything, Who Will?
The trip to Budapest, Hungary was life-changing. Even though I come from a Jewish background, the experiences I was given could not have been matched in America. As a result of the trip, I have a newfound sense of pride that I feel within my religion.
While walking around Hungary with a Kippah on my head, I was safe, but I never felt safe. Having always taken my 
freedom of religion for granted in America, I felt devastated and compassionate for my friends I made at SSG. They told stories about how they are too afraid of publicizing their religion to the general public or even their close friends. When I tried to think of situations in the U.S. where I ever felt scared of wearing my Kippah, I couldn’t. If there was something, I could do to help the Hungarian Jews feel the sense of safety and pride that I feel in America, I would give it to them.
Unfortunately, that idea isn’t plausible, but it starts with our generation. If we don’t do anything, who will? We need to continue to advocate for Jews around the world, whether we know them or not. I am so excited to welcome the students from SSG when they come to Beth Tfiloh next year when we can all be proud of our Judaism together.~Louis M.
Freedom of Religion
Since coming home from our long journey back to Baltimore, I have had a lot of time to reflect on the past week. While I learned a lot about the history and culture of Hungry, I have returned from this trip truly grateful for the opportunities I have been given and for the realization about how good we have it in the United States.
Knowing that we get to enjoy freedom of religion in our country, I found it upsetting to hear some of my Hungarian friends talk about the Anti-Semitism that they experience every day. I can’t stop thinking about what it must be like for them to grow up in a place where they live in fear of others finding out that they are Jewish and making threats against them simply for expressing their beliefs. I think about the boy who told us about discovering that one of his peers identified as a Neo-Nazi, the student who was afraid of getting beat up if he wore a kippah in public, and the
idea that the feelings of hatred against Jews that started the Holocaust still exist. This experience has taught me that we must all do what we can to combat Anti-Semitism and to advocate for religious freedom for others.
I want to thank Alan and Glynis for creating this important program, our Beth Tfiloh teachers for spending a week in Budapest with us, and my new Hungarian friends for teaching me life lessons I could not have learned from a book or in a classroom. I am really looking forward to the next part of the program when our Hungarian friends visit us in November. I really want them to experience the wonderful Jewish community we call Beth Tfiloh, where everyone is not only able but encouraged to express our Judaism.~Nathaniel
The strength we possess when united
It has been a week since I returned home from Budapest and I can’t believe it. Every day I have an experience that triggers my memory and I recall another small detail from my amazing trip. When I sit at my desk in school, I suddenly remember a Hungarian phrase I learned. Or scrolling through social media I see a picture of my new friends at SSG and my fellow BT students and remember a joke we have. Or reading the Amida, I have a flashback to saying it right next to my friends at SSG. I am constantly surrounded by things that remind me of my experience in Hungary and they instantly bring a smile to my face. Along with bringing me happiness, these amazing memories make me feel the need to share my experience with others in some way. Since returning home, I have been brainstorming ideas of how to do this in the most effective way to create positive energy and influence others to have this wonderful experience.
While I am still struggling to discover the perfect way to do this, I have found ways to share how meaningful the trip was for me hoping that others will find a positive take away from it. Every night after dinner I show
my parents a video blog (or vlog) that I created in Hungary. Although my parents might not totally understand why I am laughing in the video or might have never heard the song I am singing, it brings joy to their face when they see me happily surrounded by other Jews. Similarly, some of my teachers have asked me to speak to the class about the experience and I gratefully accepted this opportunity. This allows me to reach out to other students just like me and encourage them to take opportunities like this one. I try and help them understand that although I had the opportunity to go on this trip, they have a chance to do even greater things. For example, they can help spread Judaism around the world in other ways and create new communities or support groups just like the one we formed in Hungary with the SSG students.
I know that I will never forget this amazing experience and that it would not be the same without every one of the SSG students, BT students, and teachers. I am so grateful that I had this opportunity and learned that if everyone has a similar goal, great things will be accomplished. We all had the goal of uniting to create a new community, bonding one Jew to another Jew, and creating a ripple effect where we can reach out to others and expand our community.
=&0=& ~Margot
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Value my Judaism
I cannot believe the trip is over, that I am no longer in Budapest but rather back in America. As I am writing this, I am wondering how I will include all the things I learned in Budapest into my everyday life. From the Hungarian phrases I learned from my friends, and how to be outgoing, to appreciating my Judaism. I am so thankful I had the opportunity of being included on this trip and be able to make the memories I now cherish. It is now Wednesday, I have now been in America for three days. I have spent a lot of time looking through the pictures I have taken and can’t help but smile. I smile at the new friendships I have made and the memories I will always treasure.
The pictures contain so many emotions that are hard to put into words. While looking at them I feel happy for all the new friendships and memories, but I also feel sad, sad that this amazing experience is over and that I will not see many of my friends again because they are graduating but again happy because in November many of my new friends will be coming to Beth Tfiloh. The first night back from Budapest I remember crying in my room because I knew it would be a long wait before I would be seeing my friends again. The people who taught me to appreciate my Judaism instead of taking it for granted.
It is hard to express all the things I loved about the trip. I loved that we were able to go to another country and so easily connect to the people there through our shared love of Judaism. I loved waking up every morning and going to daven with the Hungarians. I loved how everyone was so excepting of me and allowed me to be myself without worrying about judgment. I could continue this list for many pages, just listing all the things I loved about this trip. But the most important thing I think is the bonding we all went through. How we all became friends and what I would even call a family through our shared love of Judaism. While there I was taught to value my Judaism while also teaching them how to embrace it.~Lily
Cherish forever
I can’t believe I am back. The trip went by so fast. I had so much fun. I loved touring the city, glaring at every site around me. I loved bonding with the Hungarian teenagers and sharing both serious and funny moments with them. I loved walking around in a foreign country, not really knowing where I was going, but completely trusting everyone around me to lead the way. The friendships I made and the experiences I had were simply unforgettable. The fact that I flew across the Atlantic ocean, met people from a different culture, and immediately bonded with them is
absolutely incredible! When do you get that chance again? When I tell most people that I went to Hungary they mostly want to know what sites I visited, where I ate, how beautiful the city was, etc. However, the most important part to me was who I was with. I had the best time with these Hungarian students and I can’t believe I have to wait
another six months to see them! The experience just wouldn’t have been the same without any single one of them.
One of the best experiences I shared with them was the Shabbaton. As we all celebrated Shabbat together, we shared our stories as Jewish teenagers and bonded together as a group. Every song we sang and every tradition we took part in felt so meaningful. I have always loved
Shabbat, but not necessarily because of the tradition;
rather because of the people I am sharing the traditions with. With the people I shared these Jewish customs with, I think that this was one of the best Shabbats I have ever experienced.
Now that I am back in America, I will go back to my regular Shabbat and my regular routine. I am no longer going to SSG every morning. I am no longer in a foreign country, exploring this new city. I am no longer meeting my new Hungarian friends for a day full of fun and bonding experiences, as well as sharing our Jewish traditions. I am
no longer in Hungary.
However, I am still part of this program, and I plan on staying part of this program and being active in it. Hopefully, I can stay in touch with my new Hungarian friends and when I see them next year, I can reconnect with them as if we had never been apart. This whole program is an amazing experience that I will cherish forever. I am so
thankful to be a part of it and I am so thankful for every single person who shared this experience with me. ~Alma
A New Perspective
When I close my eyes, I see the antique buildings lining the streets, the vibrant colors, and bustling city. I am amazed that after just one week I was able to make lasting friendships with my peers living halfway across the world. Leaving all that was familiar allowed me to gain a new perspective of other cultures. I have a new outlook on life and a new appreciation for the life I have.
In Budapest, memories were made and will be treasured forever. Whether it was staying up all night talking, practicing our secret handshake, or just sitting together, we were happy. Now, I’m back in school with enough work to make me want to crawl into bed and never come out. However, I think of my friends in Budapest. My friends who do not have a private school education with elite teachers. My friends who are unable to practice their Judaism without fear of anti-semitic remarks. My friends who can’t see themselves building a future in the country they grew up in. I must pull myself together, if not for me but for them. I will no longer take my education, religious freedom, and political freedom for granted.
I feel like a changed person; I know that the lives of the Hungarians were also changed by our visit. This makes me feel important. Like I have a mission in life to fulfill and I am here for a reason. Although it was heartbreaking to leave my new friends, I hope that I will one day see them again. I know both their lives and mine are forever changed because of this trip.
“The end of the beginning”
I had a moment. A moment in which I received something special. A moment in which something changed within me. A moment in which I felt alive. A moment in which I felt cared about. That moment was our last night in Hungary. After what felt like such a short week full of amazing memories and experiences, like our trips across the Danube, to our visits to the Holocaust memorials and zoo, to the bread eating, to the bonding while making and listening to songs, we had formed a bond unlike any I had ever felt before. I felt and currently feel so happy to be part of such an amazing program in which everyone wants to learn from each other but most importantly grow and learn about their Judaism. The amount of untapped passion and excitement in the Jewish teens in Hungary is absolutely inspiring and my goal was to try and tap into that unknown passion for Judaism and show them the pride and beauty that is intertwined with every aspect of Judaism. Over the course of our last shabbas there I had the pleasure and honor of giving two students who had never had a bar mitzvah, an Aliya in the traditional Torah reading service. Little did I know how much it would mean to the two kids after the fact. After their Aliya, they instantly looked so happy and excited which in turn excited me. I felt so lucky in that moment to be a part of the start to their amazing Jewish journey.
Anyways, after Shabbat ended no one wanted for the Shabbas experience to end so many of us formed an anti-phone table in which we continued to have deep meaningful conversations without the distraction of our devices. The moment it all clicked was later that night when all the students gathered by a raging campfire and sang and danced together and really bonded in our last couple hours together. However, the fire reminded me of something I saw earlier that week in the courtyard behind the Dohany Synagogue. We had seen a Holocaust 
memorial of a massive stain glass wall and on the wall was fire consuming a snake. And we were told that the snake symbolized the Nazis and the fire represented the Jews. The message the artist of this Memorial was trying to convey was that the Jewish people are full of passion and excitement, and yearning for our Judaism and those feelings will consume anyone who tries to destroy us. So sitting there by the campfire thinking about that while hugging and singing and bonding in those last few hours together became the highpoint of my trip. We then proceeded to stay up together since we wanted to maximize our time spent with each other and continued to bond the rest of the night. I learned so much about the strength in unity and the love between brotherhood and sisterhood of the Jewish people and it is something I will never forget. The friendships I forged with be everlasting and I hope to continue to strengthen my own and other peoples Judaism through more experiences like these! I want to thank everyone who made this trip possible because without you I would not have been able to take part in such an amazing and life-changing experience. ~ Avishye
The Best Experience of my Life
Feeling an overwhelming sense of excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to participate in the trip to Budapest, I could not wait to get there. I knew this would be an unforgettable experience. The friendships I made will last a lifetime; I know we will stay connected through this amazing bond.
I am so thankful that I was able to spend a week in an environment like no other. I have learned so much. I learned that strangers can become friends within five minutes, that Hungarian is a hard language to learn, and that I enjoy stepping out of my comfort zone while meeting new people. The friendships I have made are irreplaceable and I can’t express the passion I feel about the trip and the memories.
Each day I had the opportunity to explore new ideas while solidifying my friendships. Huddled with BT and SSG students and faculty, learning about the Shoe Memorial and the devastating history behind it are memories I will never forget. Knowing the hardships that the Jewish people had to endure in order for Judaism to be so lively today, makes me feel proud of my religion and ancestors.
Traveling to Budapest, learning about the Jewish sites while joined as two sister-schools, gave me a greater appreciation for my community and my Jewish identity. Each site had a different story that impacted Judaism and the Jewish people as a whole. Through hardships and good fortune, I know that I can always turn to my religion and new friends. I will never forget the amazing experience that I have been able to take part in. I am forever grateful for this meaningful experience, and for the bond between BT and SSG.
All of Me
As the Beth Tfiloh students gather with the SSG students on the final night of our Shabbaton, a sense of unity and friendship arises in the form of a bonfire. At this moment in the cold and dewy evening in Leanyfalu, Hungary, we want nothing more than this special time we have. We met each other just a week ago, yet we all couldn’t be closer friends. All the memories we made, all the inside jokes and all the truly incredible experiences only added to the special feeling we all felt that night.
After a meaningful and fun Shabbaton we are all excited to spend our last night together. Emotions are high, and so is our adrenaline. We didn’t sleep the whole night, and we just wanted some time and activity so we could relax and decompress before our journey back to the states. Gathered around a bonfire, the BT students and SSG students shared a feeling of love, happiness and compassion for the journey and memories we have made together. With the speaker blasting music and all these emotions in the air, what else could we do but sing and dance! Wrapping our arms around each other, trying to hold on to this meaningful time, the song All of Me by John Legend starts to play. Without an ounce of doubt, we were all chanting the words in unison. Some people were laughing, some were crying, but most importantly, we were all together.
Suddenly, the meaning of this trip had popped in my head. It’s not about where you go, or what you do, but it is about who you spend time with, and the relationships you build that make a trip so meaningful. Nothing described our experiences and feelings more than this song we sang together. Because of the special bonds and memories, we made, we knew it would be hard to let go and say goodbye. So, this song was not only important to me, but also important to everyone in that circle because this was our way of saying goodbye. The reality of leaving the people we spent so much time with and loved so much was coming true and although it was sad, this was the last a final moment we had together as a group and we will always remember that “All of Me, Loves all of You” -John Legend. ~ Ethan M.
Lifetime connections
As I reminisce on the week in Budapest, Hungary tears fill my eyes, wishing to go back. I wish
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Beautiful Mission
As we get to the airport I am thinking about all of the amazing memories and friendships I have made on this trip. I already knew from Saturday night that saying goodbye would be tough, but it would have to happen. As much as I 
didn’t want to say goodbye I would have to. It was incredibly sad saying bye to the life-long friends I had made but this struggle made me realize that I was truly impacted by this trip. Along with that, I learned so many valuable lessons. For example, I am now so grateful for how I am able to express my Judaism, which is something many people take for granted.
I am so thankful for being able to go on this life-changing trip in Budapest, Hungary. I was so excited to go on this trip for an amazing experience and it was better than what I had imagined it to be. I never would have thought that I could make such genuine friends in just a week and that saying goodbye would be so hard. But this was because when we first met the students from SSG we immediately connected. Throughout the trip, these friendships only grew stronger while we were making such good memories at the same time. We were always together from saying prayers at the Shoe Memorial to singing around a campfire, all of this strengthened our bond. I will always remember this trip since it is one of the best experiences of my life and am very grateful to Beth Tfiloh, SOS International and my parents for allowing me to take part in such a beautiful mission to spread Judaism. Thank you all!!! ~ Sarah
Now Until Forever
As the final minutes of my flight home pass, I reminisce about the incredible opportunity I had this last week. The opportunity to build longlasting friendships, bonds, and memories that I will cherish forever. However, it is not only the end of this journey, but the beginning of a bigger and brighter future.
As I look through various pictures on my camera and phone, I can barely contain my desire to go back. The smiles and laughter these photos capture paint an illustrious picture of the newly experienced culture and the newly forged friendships. These photos depict my truly awesome experience and exhibit the landscape of a place I can now call home.
While the flight attendants bring our food, I recall the cuisine as well as the American snacks we introduced to our Hungarian friends. I remember the immense amount of bread we consumed as well as the delicious lunch we enjoyed on our first day. I think of the day we introduced our new friends to “Cheese It’s” and “Cliff Bars”. I now anticipate the day that they will come visit us so we can continue our “food bonding sessions”.
As I walk through the aisles of the plane, memories of walking through Budapest flood my brain. Every landmark we saw serves as a window into their rich culture and ancient history. I think of the fountain near the parliament at which our group repeatedly “split the seas”. I recall the day on which we walked twelve miles yet, continued to laugh and smile despite our aching legs.
Despite the countless memories, it is hard to put into words the impact this trip made on my life. It revealed many things about who I am and what I want to become. It showed me the importance of reaching out to others and working as a team to achieve a common goal. It taught me to cherish every small moment and not to wish life away. But most importantly, it enhanced my connection to the Jewish people and instilled meaning in many of the practices I regularly take for granted. This trip gave me a new found goal of filling every second of my life with meaning and I hope to use the skills I acquired to further challenge me in my future endeavors. ~Aleesa
I’ve never minded goodbyes…
I’ve never minded goodbyes before until now. I understand that in life you meet people, you separate
and that’s the end of your relationship, but I felt something different at the end of this trip. As we exited the bus and entered the airport we said our final goodbyes to people we just met less than a week ago. Hugs and tears surrounded me and I wondered how we became so close in such little time. We started the week with the usual questions: name, grade, hobbies, aspirations; but those superficial conversations quickly evolved into much more. We laughed together, told each other our fears, the Hungarians told us why they fear walking down the street with a kippah because they don’t want to be beaten.
Spending the last night together, singing around a campfire, arms around each other, we were united after only 5 days. I didn’t mind goodbyes until I left my Hungarian friends, but now I know what it feels like to miss someone. So until November when we meet again, I will text them every night so that our connections are not lost.
I hope that I have helped them in learning what it means to be Jewish so they can feel more comfortable as a Jew in a Christian country. I hope they continue strengthening their Jewish identities so their identities are not lost to their government. It’s not going to be easy, but I hope they can stay in their own country and live as they have lived and practice religion as they have practiced. The relationships forged this week are important to ensure they can keep their Jewish identities and have the support of us here at Beth Tfiloh. ~ Ethan T.
Campfire
As the week came to a close, I did not want to leave. My new friendships and memories would soon be associated with the past. I never wanted this experience to end; the week was so much fun. We toured Buda and Pest, spent time at SSG, went to an escape room, a museum, the Shoe M
emorial for the Holocaust, and saw many synagogues and Jewish sites. The week was amazing and I knew that Shabbat would be even better!
During Shabbat, I grew closer to all the students. Without technology, everyone has the ability to let go of their struggles and be free from social media. Shabbat allowed everyone to reconnect and take a break from everyday responsibilities. We all had the chance to get closer while being distanced from technology. Which is exactly what we did.
As the Shabbaton came to a close, no one wanted to leave. All the students were huddled together around a campfire. We swayed and sang a variety of songs—Jewish, American, Hungarian. We made smores and listened to 
music. As the night went on, we stayed there for hours. Every student danced and chanted songs together. I kept thinking, I just got here, how could the experience already end?
Everyone showed so much passion as we danced and sang. The energy of each student was so powerful. We were united and I was amazed to see the effect and closeness throughout the circle of students. BT and SSG students embraced each other and the new experience that would never be forgotten.
Keeping friendships alive
As this amazing trip comes to an end I want to make sure that I take every last opportunity to strengthen the friendships I have made so far. As we are all taking the bus to the campsite for the Shabbaton I can already tell it is going to be one of the most memorable moments of this trip. Throughout the Shabbaton we are spending time with our friends davening, playing volleyball and basketball, and enjoying our time together. After a wonderful afternoon of getting closer with my old and new friends, the time has come for Havdalah. We all gather together in one big 
circle, putting our arms around each other while singing. Suddenly, I take a second and look around to appreciate this beautiful moment since I thought it would be one of the last with this incredible group of people.
Once we received our phones back after Shabbat I did not feel the need to go on it. I realized that I would much rather spend these last hours with my friends than catching up on social media. As I walked into the main building to go get a drink I noticed that not many people were on their phones, they were just sitting 
and having conversations. I loved seeing this, how we could all be on our phones but we all felt that we should spend this time together. As a result of this, we decide to make a campfire. This campfire was not planned which makes it that much better. Sitting around the campfire was a choice that all of us made as individuals to take part in. As a group, we sang and danced for hours around this fire making sure that it wouldn’t go out. We wanted to keep this campfire alive just like we all wish to keep the friendships we made on this trip. We only want them to get stronger and to not let them burn out since we made lifelong friends on this trip. ~Sarah
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Beth Tfiloh
Shabbaton Divrei Torah
Aviva R and Abby O – Beth Tfiloh Students
Jews from all different backgrounds and religious practices came together on October 7th, and have remained united in the ...
They just left…
They just left. It’s been about an hour and I’m still crying. Crying because it’s over. The bond that was formed will still be everlasting but it’s still different. We will never stop talking to each other but there is something different. A good different and a bad different.
I’ll start with the good (everybody loves the good). The bond we made is still here and will forever always be here. I will forever love my Budapest friends (right now I’m trying to convince my parents to allow me to visit them over the summer!). The bond as I mentioned previously is everlasting. It’s the small moments that mean the most (as much as the programmed stuff helped us bond, it was when we were alone, being kids that helped strengthen the bond most). One of my favorite moments happened today (although there are so many and you are gonna hear a lot of them so…get ready). Today we had a farewell meal. During the meal, I was sitting next to my good friend (very good
friend, because I love them all and it feels like we’ve been friends forever), Simon. I had been wearing Simons scarf (it is black and very comfy) since the Shabbaton. But today, I also had on his black beanie, his black sunglasses, and his black jeans (and fuzzy) jacket. Suffice to say, I had become Simon. And to add the cherry on top, he had on my red and black fuzzy jacket. This is just another example of us being kids. Us bonding in the way kids are meant to, by being silly and wearing each other’s clothing (I really love that scarf).
The bad moments aren’t actually bad, they are just really (really, really) sad. The farewell dinner is exactly as it sounds. Saying goodbye (but not forever). After the meal, where we all talked and had our last bit of fun came the sad part. Saying goodbye was the hardest thing I had to do. Like I mentioned it an hour later and I still have tear after tear leaking down my face. But as much as it was sad, it showed everyone present the strength of our bond. Nobody wanted to be separated. There was talk of running and hiding in a closet to miss the planes so they wouldn’t have to leave (of course it was only talk). The hugs really made the tears fall. I must have hugged everybody twice. I was just standing there leaning into the hug from my newly (not so new, we were also friends in March) made friend, just crying. I was physically shaking with sobs. And even though we were hugging and trying to comfort each other it was still horribly sad. Sad that we had to leave. Sad that words weren’t enough. But that sadness is what was meant to be there. SOS is meant to make bonds like this. As much as nobody liked leaving and being the ones left, it was a necessity. The program was made for us to form the bond that made us want to hide our friends so they wouldn’t leave. The program was made for us to stay after they had left still crying (at least I was…still am actually) and talk about how we will stay connected through the time we are not together. We came up with a plan (but shhh…it’s a secret…for now) to keep us in touch (and maybe even still pray together every once in a while). So as sad as it was (and it’s heartbreakingly sad) it’s also a great opportunity to continue to share this bond (and make it stronger even though it doesn’t really need to be because it’s so strong now).
Now I told you I would share some of the little moments so after all that sad talk here is a funny one.
During the first night of dinner, I was trying to pour myself a cup of water (key word…trying), I spilled the water however. Next (same night) a new pitcher of water was placed on the table and in trying to move it I made some splash over the top. That was night one. I’ll skip the many other spills I had and go into the two most important. I had a cup of tea in the davening room. While picking it up I dropped it all into the carpet and my shoes (newish shoes). I cleaned the spill up of course but they got a little stained. Now this morning (Sunday morning) I was having a cup of passion tea. And surprise, surprise, I spilled the tea. It got all over the table and my shoes. I was so scared my shoes would stain. But thankfully they only have a little bit of color. But Glynis told me something amazing. It was along the lines of don’t worry about it, it shows you were here. And now whenever I look at my stained Tim’s I’ll know when it happened and all the feelings that were there.
My last moment was staying up until three am last night. Except I didn’t stay up. I fell asleep on one of my friends. And to show how bonded we are, they didn’t wake me up, they didn’t move me. I was allowed to sleep for a few hours on this person while they just sat there and talked with the people around us. It was a moment where everybody felt the bond. Because at three am were (really them) were all awake and just taking (I heard from a friend what happened while I was asleep). And despite being asleep, I still felt it. I felt the connection that Alan and Glynis made possible.
I cannot, and never will be able to thank them enough. They brought us together. They made out connection possible. And they encourage us to do what we want. For that, I am forever grateful for those two amazingly wonderful humans.-Lily G., Beth Tfiloh student
From a different perspective
Last time I wrote the blogs from a different perspective. Last time I was in Budapest, I was the traveler, I was the one with jet lag. This time, however, I am the host. I have somebody staying in my house. I get to show people around my city. And most importantly I got in touch with my Judaism once again.
I’m not going to lie. After getting back from the trip there, for a few weeks was more in touch than ever before. But after a few weeks, I lost that touch. Now, however, I’m realizing how lucky I am. How lucky I am to be in America, where I can practice freely.
During this morning Shabbats praying, there was an option for an alternative prayer. In this, we talked about what the SOS program means to us. There were so many responses that showed how important this program is for all of us. My take on the program is that it breaks down barriers. In the end, we are all teenagers and it amazes me that this program allows us (teenagers from two different countries) to get along like we’ve known each other our whole lives.
The first day, it was around 8:45 pm when the buses came from the airport. The second they emerged from the bus it was like it’s hadn’t been a year. A year since we had last seen each other. Everybody was just hugging and smiling. There was no unhappy face in that crowd. It was amazing.
The week passed so quickly. I can’t believe it’s almost over. These past two days we have been on a Shabbaton. It had been fantastic. Like I mentioned earlier, we are just teenagers. On Friday night, for example, we stayed up until like 2 am just talking and goofing around. Despite all that we all go through personally we are still in the end teenagers. At dinner, we played pranks on each other. Waters were salted. I would make a very sugary tea (because I needed the energy to stay awake) it would get passed around to be tasted. Because again (I will never be able to say this enough) we are just teenagers!! Teenagers who learn from each other. I have learned to appreciate my Judaism more. How privileged I am to be able to practice mine. I used to take it for granted. I would get bored in my Jewish classes. Now I see it in a whole new light. I feel more in touch with my Judaism than ever before.
Tonight for example. (After Shabbat ended of course) we all sat around in a rec room watching a movie. We all agree fed on the movie and relaxed on each other watching a movie. And when the movie ended some people headed to different places. But as I am typing this now, I’m sitting on a couch in a dark room watching “Pitch Perfect 2” with around 11 people. Some of us on the couch, others on the floor and some just in chairs pushed right up against each other. I couldn’t have asked for a better end to this week. We ended it like kids. Just watching TV, or listening to loud (very, very loud) music, playing ping pong, or just talking. As mentioned many times, we are just teenagers. Except we are all contracted through a sense of community that SOS brings us.
I am forever grateful for this program and for Alan and Glynis who have brought us all together. And for helping create this everlasting friendship and bond.
-Lily G.
Reflection on Budapest
It is now approximately two weeks past our departure from Budapest. I have had a lot of time to reflect and think about all the wonderful memories and friends I made. I am happy to report that I keep in touch with all my peers from SSG, and everyday we relive the happy, laughable, and exciting moments.
Never once, in a million years would have I ever imagined getting the opportunity to be a part of this incredible experience. The Morim Limmud project was truly a once in a lifetime opportunity and I can’t even begin with the event to start with. However, I guess I do have to choose one, so I will explain the feelings I felt after seeing my family when I came home and what I miss the most. I am very lucky to have such supportive parents in my life. No matter how unachievable it may seem, my parents always push me to exceed my limits and flourish in new situations. However, my parents and I both knew that it is a big risk to send me to a foreign country by myself and without their guidance. Furthermore, I knew that I would be able to handle all the responsibility while having the time of my life. I cannot express the amount of joy and pride my parents felt as I walked through the airport terminal, with only one and a half hours of sleep in the past two days and a smile from ear to ear on my face. Hugs and kisses were shared, and I could not wait to tell them all about my experience.
Coming back to school on Monday was both exciting, yet challenging. Although I got around ten hours of sleep the previous night, I was still seven hours ahead of what the actual time was in America. When I came into school it was around lunchtime, and to my surprise I was greeted by a swarm of my best friends. Answering questions and sharing memories, I was enjoying myself. However, that all changed as I heard the bell for the next period. Little did I know the rest of the four hours in my school day would be one of the most challenging it had ever been. I could barely keep my eyes half open, let alone stay awake. I had no drive to focus, nor did I have the ability too. However, I got through the day and I am thankful for my friends because, without them, I would have lost my mind and totally forgot about my experience.
Looking back, I learned many things. However, the main lesson I took away from my experience would be that no matter where an individual is in their life, they must always stay true to who they are because that is the only person you want people to meet you as. I volunteered to travel to a totally different country, not knowing the language, people, or even any plans that I would participate in. However, I knew that if I stayed true to my caring, funny, and optimistic personality, I was sure to find some people who I connected with. Although this was definitely the case, I was so astonished to see that all the students from SSG were not only willing to meet everyone and connect but also wanted to connect on an extremely meaningful level and make memories which will last a lifetime. I appreciate all the planning and commitment that the faculty at SSG and Beth Tfiloh did to accomplish this program, and I especially thank SOS International for allowing me to embark on this journey of a lifetime. ~ Ethan
If We Don’t Do Anything, Who Will?
The trip to Budapest, Hungary was life-changing. Even though I come from a Jewish background, the experiences I was given could not have been matched in America. As a result of the trip, I have a newfound sense of pride that I feel within my religion.
While walking around Hungary with a Kippah on my head, I was safe, but I never felt safe. Having always taken my freedom of religion for granted in America, I felt devastated and compassionate for my friends I made at SSG. They told stories about how they are too afraid of publicizing their religion to the general public or even their close friends. When I tried to think of situations in the U.S. where I ever felt scared of wearing my Kippah, I couldn’t. If there was something, I could do to help the Hungarian Jews feel the sense of safety and pride that I feel in America, I would give it to them.
Unfortunately, that idea isn’t plausible, but it starts with our generation. If we don’t do anything, who will? We need to continue to advocate for Jews around the world, whether we know them or not. I am so excited to welcome the students from SSG when they come to Beth Tfiloh next year when we can all be proud of our Judaism together.~Louis M.
Freedom of Religion
Since coming home from our long journey back to Baltimore, I have had a lot of time to reflect on the past week. While I learned a lot about the history and culture of Hungry, I have returned from this trip truly grateful for the opportunities I have been given and for the realization about how good we have it in the United States.
Knowing that we get to enjoy freedom of religion in our country, I found it upsetting to hear some of my Hungarian friends talk about the Anti-Semitism that they experience every day. I can’t stop thinking about what it must be like for them to grow up in a place where they live in fear of others finding out that they are Jewish and making threats against them simply for expressing their beliefs. I think about the boy who told us about discovering that one of his peers identified as a Neo-Nazi, the student who was afraid of getting beat up if he wore a kippah in public, and the idea that the feelings of hatred against Jews that started the Holocaust still exist. This experience has taught me that we must all do what we can to combat Anti-Semitism and to advocate for religious freedom for others.
I want to thank Alan and Glynis for creating this important program, our Beth Tfiloh teachers for spending a week in Budapest with us, and my new Hungarian friends for teaching me life lessons I could not have learned from a book or in a classroom. I am really looking forward to the next part of the program when our Hungarian friends visit us in November. I really want them to experience the wonderful Jewish community we call Beth Tfiloh, where everyone is not only able but encouraged to express our Judaism.~Nathaniel
The strength we possess when united
It has been a week since I returned home from Budapest and I can’t believe it. Every day I have an experience that triggers my memory and I recall another small detail from my amazing trip. When I sit at my desk in school, I suddenly remember a Hungarian phrase I learned. Or scrolling through social media I see a picture of my new friends at SSG and my fellow BT students and remember a joke we have. Or reading the Amida, I have a flashback to saying it right next to my friends at SSG. I am constantly surrounded by things that remind me of my experience in Hungary and they instantly bring a smile to my face. Along with bringing me happiness, these amazing memories make me feel the need to share my experience with others in some way. Since returning home, I have been brainstorming ideas of how to do this in the most effective way to create positive energy and influence others to have this wonderful experience.
While I am still struggling to discover the perfect way to do this, I have found ways to share how meaningful the trip was for me hoping that others will find a positive take away from it. Every night after dinner I show my parents a video blog (or vlog) that I created in Hungary. Although my parents might not totally understand why I am laughing in the video or might have never heard the song I am singing, it brings joy to their face when they see me happily surrounded by other Jews. Similarly, some of my teachers have asked me to speak to the class about the experience and I gratefully accepted this opportunity. This allows me to reach out to other students just like me and encourage them to take opportunities like this one. I try and help them understand that although I had the opportunity to go on this trip, they have a chance to do even greater things. For example, they can help spread Judaism around the world in other ways and create new communities or support groups just like the one we formed in Hungary with the SSG students.
I know that I will never forget this amazing experience and that it would not be the same without every one of the SSG students, BT students, and teachers. I am so grateful that I had this opportunity and learned that if everyone has a similar goal, great things will be accomplished. We all had the goal of uniting to create a new community, bonding one Jew to another Jew, and creating a ripple effect where we can reach out to others and expand our community.
=&0=& ~Margot
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Value my Judaism
I cannot believe the trip is over, that I am no longer in Budapest but rather back in America. As I am writing this, I am wondering how I will include all the things I learned in Budapest into my everyday life. From the Hungarian phrases I learned from my friends, and how to be outgoing, to appreciating my Judaism. I am so thankful I had the opportunity of being included on this trip and be able to make the memories I now cherish. It is now Wednesday, I have now been in America for three days. I have spent a lot of time looking through the pictures I have taken and can’t help but smile. I smile at the new friendships I have made and the memories I will always treasure.
The pictures contain so many emotions that are hard to put into words. While looking at them I feel happy for all the new friendships and memories, but I also feel sad, sad that this amazing experience is over and that I will not see many of my friends again because they are graduating but again happy because in November many of my new friends will be coming to Beth Tfiloh. The first night back from Budapest I remember crying in my room because I knew it would be a long wait before I would be seeing my friends again. The people who taught me to appreciate my Judaism instead of taking it for granted.
It is hard to express all the things I loved about the trip. I loved that we were able to go to another country and so easily connect to the people there through our shared love of Judaism. I loved waking up every morning and going to daven with the Hungarians. I loved how everyone was so excepting of me and allowed me to be myself without worrying about judgment. I could continue this list for many pages, just listing all the things I loved about this trip. But the most important thing I think is the bonding we all went through. How we all became friends and what I would even call a family through our shared love of Judaism. While there I was taught to value my Judaism while also teaching them how to embrace it.~Lily
Cherish forever
I can’t believe I am back. The trip went by so fast. I had so much fun. I loved touring the city, glaring at every site around me. I loved bonding with the Hungarian teenagers and sharing both serious and funny moments with them. I loved walking around in a foreign country, not really knowing where I was going, but completely trusting everyone around me to lead the way. The friendships I made and the experiences I had were simply unforgettable. The fact that I flew across the Atlantic ocean, met people from a different culture, and immediately bonded with them is
absolutely incredible! When do you get that chance again? When I tell most people that I went to Hungary they mostly want to know what sites I visited, where I ate, how beautiful the city was, etc. However, the most important part to me was who I was with. I had the best time with these Hungarian students and I can’t believe I have to wait
another six months to see them! The experience just wouldn’t have been the same without any single one of them.
absolutely incredible! When do you get that chance again? When I tell most people that I went to Hungary they mostly want to know what sites I visited, where I ate, how beautiful the city was, etc. However, the most important part to me was who I was with. I had the best time with these Hungarian students and I can’t believe I have to wait
another six months to see them! The experience just wouldn’t have been the same without any single one of them.
One of the best experiences I shared with them was the Shabbaton. As we all celebrated Shabbat together, we shared our stories as Jewish teenagers and bonded together as a group. Every song we sang and every tradition we took part in felt so meaningful. I have always loved Shabbat, but not necessarily because of the tradition;
rather because of the people I am sharing the traditions with. With the people I shared these Jewish customs with, I think that this was one of the best Shabbats I have ever experienced.
Now that I am back in America, I will go back to my regular Shabbat and my regular routine. I am no longer going to SSG every morning. I am no longer in a foreign country, exploring this new city. I am no longer meeting my new Hungarian friends for a day full of fun and bonding experiences, as well as sharing our Jewish traditions. I am
no longer in Hungary.
However, I am still part of this program, and I plan on staying part of this program and being active in it. Hopefully, I can stay in touch with my new Hungarian friends and when I see them next year, I can reconnect with them as if we had never been apart. This whole program is an amazing experience that I will cherish forever. I am so
thankful to be a part of it and I am so thankful for every single person who shared this experience with me. ~Alma
A New Perspective
When I close my eyes, I see the antique buildings lining the streets, the vibrant colors, and bustling city. I am amazed that after just one week I was able to make lasting friendships with my peers living halfway across the world. Leaving all that was familiar allowed me to gain a new perspective of other cultures. I have a new outlook on life and a new appreciation for the life I have.
In Budapest, memories were made and will be treasured forever. Whether it was staying up all night talking, practicing our secret handshake, or just sitting together, we were happy. Now, I’m back in school with enough work to make me want to crawl into bed and never come out. However, I think of my friends in Budapest. My friends who do not have a private school education with elite teachers. My friends who are unable to practice their Judaism without fear of anti-semitic remarks. My friends who can’t see themselves building a future in the country they grew up in. I must pull myself together, if not for me but for them. I will no longer take my education, religious freedom, and political freedom for granted.
I feel like a changed person; I know that the lives of the Hungarians were also changed by our visit. This makes me feel important. Like I have a mission in life to fulfill and I am here for a reason. Although it was heartbreaking to leave my new friends, I hope that I will one day see them again. I know both their lives and mine are forever changed because of this trip.
“The end of the beginning”
I had a moment. A moment in which I received something special. A moment in which something changed within me. A moment in which I felt alive. A moment in which I felt cared about. That moment was our last night in Hungary. After what felt like such a short week full of amazing memories and experiences, like our trips across the Danube, to our visits to the Holocaust memorials and zoo, to the bread eating, to the bonding while making and listening to songs, we had formed a bond unlike any I had ever felt before. I felt and currently feel so happy to be part of such an amazing program in which everyone wants to learn from each other but most importantly grow and learn about their Judaism. The amount of untapped passion and excitement in the Jewish teens in Hungary is absolutely inspiring and my goal was to try and tap into that unknown passion for Judaism and show them the pride and beauty that is intertwined with every aspect of Judaism. Over the course of our last shabbas there I had the pleasure and honor of giving two students who had never had a bar mitzvah, an Aliya in the traditional Torah reading service. Little did I know how much it would mean to the two kids after the fact. After their Aliya, they instantly looked so happy and excited which in turn excited me. I felt so lucky in that moment to be a part of the start to their amazing Jewish journey.
o had never had a bar mitzvah, an Aliya in the traditional Torah reading service. Little did I know how much it would mean to the two kids after the fact. After their Aliya, they instantly looked so happy and excited which in turn excited me. I felt so lucky in that moment to be a part of the start to their amazing Jewish journey.
Anyways, after Shabbat ended no one wanted for the Shabbas experience to end so many of us formed an anti-phone table in which we continued to have deep meaningful conversations without the distraction of our devices. The moment it all clicked was later that night when all the students gathered by a raging campfire and sang and danced together and really bonded in our last couple hours together. However, the fire reminded me of something I saw earlier that week in the courtyard behind the Dohany Synagogue. We had seen a Holocaust memorial of a massive stain glass wall and on the wall was fire consuming a snake. And we were told that the snake symbolized the Nazis and the fire represented the Jews. The message the artist of this Memorial was trying to convey was that the Jewish people are full of passion and excitement, and yearning for our Judaism and those feelings will consume anyone who tries to destroy us. So sitting there by the campfire thinking about that while hugging and singing and bonding in those last few hours together became the highpoint of my trip. We then proceeded to stay up together since we wanted to maximize our time spent with each other and continued to bond the rest of the night. I learned so much about the strength in unity and the love between brotherhood and sisterhood of the Jewish people and it is something I will never forget. The friendships I forged with be everlasting and I hope to continue to strengthen my own and other peoples Judaism through more experiences like these! I want to thank everyone who made this trip possible because without you I would not have been able to take part in such an amazing and life-changing experience. ~ Avishye
The Best Experience of my Life
Feeling an overwhelming sense of excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to participate in the trip to Budapest, I could not wait to get there. I knew this would be an unforgettable experience. The friendships I made will last a lifetime; I know we will stay connected through this amazing bond.
I am so thankful that I was able to spend a week in an environment like no other. I have learned so much. I learned that strangers can become friends within five minutes, that Hungarian is a hard language to learn, and that I enjoy stepping out of my comfort zone while meeting new people. The friendships I have made are irreplaceable and I can’t express the passion I feel about the trip and the memories.
Each day I had the opportunity to explore new ideas while solidifying my friendships. Huddled with BT and SSG students and faculty, learning about the Shoe Memorial and the devastating history behind it are memories I will never forget. Knowing the hardships that the Jewish people had to endure in order for Judaism to be so lively today, makes me feel proud of my religion and ancestors.
Traveling to Budapest, learning about the Jewish sites while joined as two sister-schools, gave me a greater appreciation for my community and my Jewish identity. Each site had a different story that impacted Judaism and the Jewish people as a whole. Through hardships and good fortune, I know that I can always turn to my religion and new friends. I will never forget the amazing experience that I have been able to take part in. I am forever grateful for this meaningful experience, and for the bond between BT and SSG.
All of Me
As the Beth Tfiloh students gather with the SSG students on the final night of our Shabbaton, a sense of unity and friendship arises in the form of a bonfire. At this moment in the cold and dewy evening in Leanyfalu, Hungary, we want nothing more than this special time we have. We met each other just a week ago, yet we all couldn’t be closer friends. All the memories we made, all the inside jokes and all the truly incredible experiences only added to the special feeling we all felt that night.
After a meaningful and fun Shabbaton we are all excited to spend our last night together. Emotions are high, and so is our adrenaline. We didn’t sleep the whole night, and we just wanted some time and activity so we could relax and decompress before our journey back to the states. Gathered around a bonfire, the BT students and SSG students shared a feeling of love, happiness and compassion for the journey and memories we have made together. With the speaker blasting music and all these emotions in the air, what else could we do but sing and dance! Wrapping our arms around each other, trying to hold on to this meaningful time, the song All of Me by John Legend starts to play. Without an ounce of doubt, we were all chanting the words in unison. Some people were laughing, some were crying, but most importantly, we were all together.
Suddenly, the meaning of this trip had popped in my head. It’s not about where you go, or what you do, but it is about who you spend time with, and the relationships you build that make a trip so meaningful. Nothing described our experiences and feelings more than this song we sang together. Because of the special bonds and memories, we made, we knew it would be hard to let go and say goodbye. So, this song was not only important to me, but also important to everyone in that circle because this was our way of saying goodbye. The reality of leaving the people we spent so much time with and loved so much was coming true and although it was sad, this was the last a final moment we had together as a group and we will always remember that “All of Me, Loves all of You” -John Legend. ~ Ethan M.
Lifetime connections
As I reminisce on the week in Budapest, Hungary tears fill my eyes, wishing to go back. I wish
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Beautiful Mission
As we get to the airport I am thinking about all of the amazing memories and friendships I have made on this trip. I already knew from Saturday night that saying goodbye would be tough, but it would have to happen. As much as I didn’t want to say goodbye I would have to. It was incredibly sad saying bye to the life-long friends I had made but this struggle made me realize that I was truly impacted by this trip. Along with that, I learned so many valuable lessons. For example, I am now so grateful for how I am able to express my Judaism, which is something many people take for granted.
didn’t want to say goodbye I would have to. It was incredibly sad saying bye to the life-long friends I had made but this struggle made me realize that I was truly impacted by this trip. Along with that, I learned so many valuable lessons. For example, I am now so grateful for how I am able to express my Judaism, which is something many people take for granted.
I am so thankful for being able to go on this life-changing trip in Budapest, Hungary. I was so excited to go on this trip for an amazing experience and it was better than what I had imagined it to be. I never would have thought that I could make such genuine friends in just a week and that saying goodbye would be so hard. But this was because when we first met the students from SSG we immediately connected. Throughout the trip, these friendships only grew stronger while we were making such good memories at the same time. We were always together from saying prayers at the Shoe Memorial to singing around a campfire, all of this strengthened our bond. I will always remember this trip since it is one of the best experiences of my life and am very grateful to Beth Tfiloh, SOS International and my parents for allowing me to take part in such a beautiful mission to spread Judaism. Thank you all!!! ~ Sarah
Now Until Forever
As the final minutes of my flight home pass, I reminisce about the incredible opportunity I had this last week. The opportunity to build longlasting friendships, bonds, and memories that I will cherish forever. However, it is not only the end of this journey, but the beginning of a bigger and brighter future.
As I look through various pictures on my camera and phone, I can barely contain my desire to go back. The smiles and laughter these photos capture paint an illustrious picture of the newly experienced culture and the newly forged friendships. These photos depict my truly awesome experience and exhibit the landscape of a place I can now call home.
While the flight attendants bring our food, I recall the cuisine as well as the American snacks we introduced to our Hungarian friends. I remember the immense amount of bread we consumed as well as the delicious lunch we enjoyed on our first day. I think of the day we introduced our new friends to “Cheese It’s” and “Cliff Bars”. I now anticipate the day that they will come visit us so we can continue our “food bonding sessions”.
As I walk through the aisles of the plane, memories of walking through Budapest flood my brain. Every landmark we saw serves as a window into their rich culture and ancient history. I think of the fountain near the parliament at which our group repeatedly “split the seas”. I recall the day on which we walked twelve miles yet, continued to laugh and smile despite our aching legs.
Despite the countless memories, it is hard to put into words the impact this trip made on my life. It revealed many things about who I am and what I want to become. It showed me the importance of reaching out to others and working as a team to achieve a common goal. It taught me to cherish every small moment and not to wish life away. But most importantly, it enhanced my connection to the Jewish people and instilled meaning in many of the practices I regularly take for granted. This trip gave me a new found goal of filling every second of my life with meaning and I hope to use the skills I acquired to further challenge me in my future endeavors. ~Aleesa
I’ve never minded goodbyes…
I’ve never minded goodbyes before until now. I understand that in life you meet people, you separate and that’s the end of your relationship, but I felt something different at the end of this trip. As we exited the bus and entered the airport we said our final goodbyes to people we just met less than a week ago. Hugs and tears surrounded me and I wondered how we became so close in such little time. We started the week with the usual questions: name, grade, hobbies, aspirations; but those superficial conversations quickly evolved into much more. We laughed together, told each other our fears, the Hungarians told us why they fear walking down the street with a kippah because they don’t want to be beaten.
Spending the last night together, singing around a campfire, arms around each other, we were united after only 5 days. I didn’t mind goodbyes until I left my Hungarian friends, but now I know what it feels like to miss someone. So until November when we meet again, I will text them every night so that our connections are not lost.
I hope that I have helped them in learning what it means to be Jewish so they can feel more comfortable as a Jew in a Christian country. I hope they continue strengthening their Jewish identities so their identities are not lost to their government. It’s not going to be easy, but I hope they can stay in their own country and live as they have lived and practice religion as they have practiced. The relationships forged this week are important to ensure they can keep their Jewish identities and have the support of us here at Beth Tfiloh. ~ Ethan T.
and that’s the end of your relationship, but I felt something different at the end of this trip. As we exited the bus and entered the airport we said our final goodbyes to people we just met less than a week ago. Hugs and tears surrounded me and I wondered how we became so close in such little time. We started the week with the usual questions: name, grade, hobbies, aspirations; but those superficial conversations quickly evolved into much more. We laughed together, told each other our fears, the Hungarians told us why they fear walking down the street with a kippah because they don’t want to be beaten.Spending the last night together, singing around a campfire, arms around each other, we were united after only 5 days. I didn’t mind goodbyes until I left my Hungarian friends, but now I know what it feels like to miss someone. So until November when we meet again, I will text them every night so that our connections are not lost.
I hope that I have helped them in learning what it means to be Jewish so they can feel more comfortable as a Jew in a Christian country. I hope they continue strengthening their Jewish identities so their identities are not lost to their government. It’s not going to be easy, but I hope they can stay in their own country and live as they have lived and practice religion as they have practiced. The relationships forged this week are important to ensure they can keep their Jewish identities and have the support of us here at Beth Tfiloh. ~ Ethan T.
Campfire
As the week came to a close, I did not want to leave. My new friendships and memories would soon be associated with the past. I never wanted this experience to end; the week was so much fun. We toured Buda and Pest, spent time at SSG, went to an escape room, a museum, the Shoe Memorial for the Holocaust, and saw many synagogues and Jewish sites. The week was amazing and I knew that Shabbat would be even better!
emorial for the Holocaust, and saw many synagogues and Jewish sites. The week was amazing and I knew that Shabbat would be even better!
During Shabbat, I grew closer to all the students. Without technology, everyone has the ability to let go of their struggles and be free from social media. Shabbat allowed everyone to reconnect and take a break from everyday responsibilities. We all had the chance to get closer while being distanced from technology. Which is exactly what we did.
As the Shabbaton came to a close, no one wanted to leave. All the students were huddled together around a campfire. We swayed and sang a variety of songs—Jewish, American, Hungarian. We made smores and listened to music. As the night went on, we stayed there for hours. Every student danced and chanted songs together. I kept thinking, I just got here, how could the experience already end?
Everyone showed so much passion as we danced and sang. The energy of each student was so powerful. We were united and I was amazed to see the effect and closeness throughout the circle of students. BT and SSG students embraced each other and the new experience that would never be forgotten.
Keeping friendships alive
As this amazing trip comes to an end I want to make sure that I take every last opportunity to strengthen the friendships I have made so far. As we are all taking the bus to the campsite for the Shabbaton I can already tell it is going to be one of the most memorable moments of this trip. Throughout the Shabbaton we are spending time with our friends davening, playing volleyball and basketball, and enjoying our time together. After a wonderful afternoon of getting closer with my old and new friends, the time has come for Havdalah. We all gather together in one big circle, putting our arms around each other while singing. Suddenly, I take a second and look around to appreciate this beautiful moment since I thought it would be one of the last with this incredible group of people.
circle, putting our arms around each other while singing. Suddenly, I take a second and look around to appreciate this beautiful moment since I thought it would be one of the last with this incredible group of people.
Once we received our phones back after Shabbat I did not feel the need to go on it. I realized that I would much rather spend these last hours with my friends than catching up on social media. As I walked into the main building to go get a drink I noticed that not many people were on their phones, they were just sitting and having conversations. I loved seeing this, how we could all be on our phones but we all felt that we should spend this time together. As a result of this, we decide to make a campfire. This campfire was not planned which makes it that much better. Sitting around the campfire was a choice that all of us made as individuals to take part in. As a group, we sang and danced for hours around this fire making sure that it wouldn’t go out. We wanted to keep this campfire alive just like we all wish to keep the friendships we made on this trip. We only want them to get stronger and to not let them burn out since we made lifelong friends on this trip. ~Sarah