Day 3

As leader of the day, I debated strongly how to wake up the fellows this morning. It was a toss up between ‘I like Aeroplane jelly’ and ‘I Come From the Down Under’.  The latter won.

 We began the day with an amazing lecture about the “un-talked” side of Israel. A start up nation and its culture of ingenuity and pragmatism dominated the talk. We learnt of the countless innovations that began Israel and the contrasting cultures between Israel and Australia. Many of us weren’t aware of this side of Israel and it allowed us to explore new aspects of the country – even for those who have visited many times.

Following the talk we went to the Ilan Ramon museum and the huge crater that it is positioned below. Both aspects of the location were unbelievable. Ilan Ramon was the first Israeli astronaut to go into space. On his return home, upon entering the atmosphere the wing on the space shuttle flew off and no one survived. Following the death of his father, Ilan Ramon’s son Asaf continued to pursue a career as a pilot in the hopes of becoming an astronaut – just like his father. He too tragically died in a air force training accident. This display of perseverance and commitment made us re-evaluate the true meaning of courage.

Next was a meditation/dancing workshop that helped us improve our group dynamic and mutual trust. We were taught to communicate through expression and movement as opposed to relying on words. We all left the workshop more spatially aware and relaxed. A much needed break from the past 24 hectic hours.

Then despite the 500*C heat we went on a short hike through the Negev. This Negev track took us to an amazing waterfall that flowed in the middle of a desert. But then a Diller hike would not be complete without a loud bush doof, a party ensued.

From the hike we went straight to a nearby park. Here our tour leader, Oren, explained us the geopolitical tensions in play throughout the Middle East and the repercussions they have on Israel. We then went through the physical and cultural changes that Israel has underwent in the past century.

Bedouin tents were next. We got up close and personal with the camels and encircled the camp site on their backs. Upon return we were treated to an authentic Bedouin dinner and were given a speech by a member of the Bedouin community. Grappling with the cultural differences between us and the Bedouins, and working to recap the day at Maagal Layla ensured we were very tired and ready to sleep. All in all, an amazing day!