Aviv day 3

Shabbat is a time for reflection, a time for spirituality and a time for family and friends, the members of Aviv Group one already consider their fellow members both the former and the latter after a measly 3 days. Of course not in all senses of the word...

This morning yielded early and late risers with a revised waking time of 9 AM, allowing for that extra bit of shut eye. Of course, as jet lag continues to inflict its pains upon many, some rose earlier than others, as the daringly eager used their head start to get in some morning exercise. Lucy, Jenna and Gabby found themselves pleasantly surprised when they met up unexpectedly on their separate paths at roughly 8AM. However, the boys weren’t to be outdone as Toby and Harry stretched their legs later in the day, stopping at a nearby gym to pump some iron as only they can.

Of course being Shabbat, rest was the order of the day, with huge amounts of ‘chill’ time allotted in the schedule, group bonding continued in spates. Breakfast was surprisingly delicious as plates were filled with eggs, toast, yoghurt, salad, cereal and even a delicious spot of pudding. Spirits continued to be high as the unforeseen high quality of food and accommodation saw numerous remarks from even the notoriously hard to please Moriah girls. Following breakfast we were left to our own devices, with many going for scenic walks, into town or relaxing to some soothing music under the shade of nearby trees, however Jared Ellison’s party music was certainly not appreciated by those attempting to relax.

Lunch soon followed as meat aplenty was piled onto plates as well as of courses the occasional not existent vegetarian meal. Some dubiously coloured jelly followed, however Grant Goldman, rather ‘instagrant’ as he has been lovingly dubbed, failed to heed the clear warning fired by the acrimonious white colouring and delved into a bowl only to be met by an even less inviting taste. Lunch was proceeded by further chill time, and following this a program in which madrichim Tracy, Daniella and Oded led discussions on Shabbat, Judaism and faith. Which led to further discussions of a deeper nature, as Toby, Jared, Harry and myself questioned Oded on some of the deeper lying issues of Judaism, faith and spirituality which were common in the Sydney Jewish community.

Further relaxation ensued prior to havdallah which entailed some quick prayers as well as the indulgence of the all senses as a symbolic end to the Shabbat. Bec ably held the Shabbat candle as prayers were led by Oded, or as the boys like to refer to him in the witty Australianised moniker ‘Odie,’ as Shabbat exited in just as spiritual fashion as it had begun. Dinner was next on the agenda, with a choice of chicken or beef accompanied by vegetables and other sides. However the real show was not on the menu, but rather came from the preposterously confident young American girl by the name of Brooke who entertained all with her singing.

Post-dinner our final program of the day featured thoughts on different Israeli cities and the items which represented their contribution to Israeli culture. Hilarity ensued…

One more awesome day down, 147 to look forward to.

Jake