As I sit back and reflect on the recent trip we embarked on, I find myself overwhelmed with a multitude of emotions and memories that weave together to create a tapestry of profound experiences. Our journey was not merely a physical exploration of new places, but rather a spiritual and emotional voyage that truly touched the depths of my soul.
One of the most enriching aspects of our trip was the opportunity to make new friends along the way. These newfound friendships added layers of richness to my journey, reminding me of the beauty of human connection and the boundless capacity for friendships.
Equally significant was the chance to reconnect with old friends, to reminisce about shared memories and create new ones together. There’s something profoundly comforting about reconnecting with familiar faces in unfamiliar places, a sense of continuity and belonging that transcends time and distance.
Throughout our travels, I couldn’t shake the feeling that my grandmother, Shirley Blaine, was with me, guiding me with her wisdom and love. Though she may no longer be physically present, her spirit remains ever-present. My grandmother always said to me as long as we have breath within us we should help, love and heal. And that being a Jewish woman and Jewish leader in your community is an honor and a responsibility.
Our journey was not merely a series of sightseeing excursions, but rather an exploration of meaning and impact. Every experience left an indelible mark on my heart, reminding me of the power we possess to make a difference in the lives of others.
As a Jewish woman, living by Jewish values has always been paramount to me, and this trip served as a poignant reminder of the importance of carrying forward these traditions from generation to generation, embodying the concept of “La dor va dor”- from generation to generation. Whether it was through acts of kindness, expressions of gratitude, or moments of reflection and prayer, our journey was infused with the essence of our shared heritage, reminding me of the richness of my faith and culture.
I understand that as Jewish women it is important to celebrate how much we have achieved while still looking towards the next steps. We can always do more and will do more. And this mission is just the beginning.
In the end, as I look back on our journey, I am filled with overwhelming gratitude- gratitude for the experiences we shared, the friendships we forged, and the memories we created together.
Every part of this trip was filled with incredible moments but now looking back my “aha moment” was before the trip began. It was when I said YES! And now I understand the power of saying yes and how by saying yes it can lead you to extraordinary experiences with sensational women within an unbelievable and paramount organization. So much can happen and so much good can be done all by saying yes…
–Mitzi Solomon, Women’s Philanthropy Mexico Journey participant
