A Lesson at the Wall

by Chani Schlussel

The summer after my bat mitzvah, my grandmother took me to the Holy Land of Israel. This inspiring trip taught me a great deal about our Jewish heritage and had an immense impact on me

One of our first stops was at the Western Wall. As I stood at its foot and ran my hand over its moist stones, it was as if I were feeling the tears of all those who had come and wept before it, pouring out their hearts in prayer. I felt an immediate connection to G-d and senses that He would forever remain by my side, guiding me down the right path. Where else in the world is there a wall that, whenever you touch it, it touches you?

I was also happy to see a potpourri of Jews from around the globe, at all levels of observance, raising their voices in a harmonious prayer to G-d. Even in the 21st century, we are able to turn away from the differences that divide us and join together in times of need. This feeling was so extraordinary that I wished I could put it in a jar and keep it by my side forever. I only hope and pray that this experience will continue to guide me for years to come.