This morning we got up early and after breakfast left for Yad Vashem (the Holocaust Memorial-educational center, etc.). Marty and I had visited Yad Vashem 28 years ago, but since that time, an entirely new structure and facility was created and this was our first visit there. We entered through a garden of trees planted for the Rightous Gentiles, these are non-Jews who risked their lives to save Jews during the Holocaust. We then continued to a memorial for the million and a half children that were murdered during this period. From here we entered the main building. There were many groups from Israel, the United States and other countries visiting at the same time. I went through fairly quickly, mostly searching for stories, events, etc. that were relevant to members of my family, having seen many films and movies and read books about the Holocaust. (Also, hearing from my own family members about their experiences.) The most significant item I found was a sign that had been posted on the train, taking people to Westerbork and Auschwitz, which is were members of my father's family was taken. I was also looking for something about Kindertransports but did not find anything here. After Marty and I finished the exhibit, we visited the Archives in an attempt to research some information, me about the Kindertransport to Sweden (I was not successful) and Marty, to learn about the Dutch Prostitutes who saved Jews (also not very successful). However, we did get some ideas from this search. In general, we both found the exhibit somewhat sanitized and incomplete in their attempt to deal with a painful and difficult period in history.
After having a bite of lunch, we boarded the bus, for a return trip to the Old City, specifically the Cardo (the market in the Jewish Quarter) to do some shopping. Marty and I purchased some wonderful gifts and were pleased with our purchases as well as supporting the Israeli economy. While we were there, a torrential downpour occurred and we had to wait for this to slow down a bit as water was gushing down steps making it difficult to travel. In addition, many of us did not bring umbrellas or rain gear. Eventually, we had to leave even though it was still raining. In addition to getting wet, the other problem is that the streets of Jerusalem are made of stone which becomes very slippery when wet. We made it back to the bus, wet and cold and eager to return to our hotel to change into dry clothes.
After changing we proceed to our next study session, Marty and I bring our Halavah, for a snack. (Everyone in our group expressed hunger from being out in the cold rain earlier.)
After our study, a group of us, headed to a new location, Mamilla Mall. This is a very trendy outdoor mall. We ended up at the Rimon Cafe (another location) and enjoyed our dinner before walking back to the hotel (tonight being too tired and cold to return to the Western Wall).
It seems like we just began this tour and the days are now speeding up as we head into the last days of being in Israel. The group is jelling and friendships are being made and we are all acutely aware that the end of the trip is near. For me (and I think Marty as well), it seems like we have been here forever. So much has happened during our trip and we are continually grateful for this opportunity and gift.
Well, have to read some Torah before going to sleep in preparation for tomorrow.
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