I did it! I’m here, living in Israel and it’s official. In truth I haven’t done much actual living yet and I’ve spent a lot of time sleeping. The days before my flight (on Monday, March 26th) were spent packing and stressing out and being really emotionally charged. By the time I got to the airport I was exhausted from lack of sleep and from being mentally overloaded. I also don’t sleep very well or much on airplanes so I didn’t catch up on the flight, and the past 2 days I’ve been going to sleep super late and waking up equally late the next day. But other than that, I guess I’m now an Israeli citizen!
When we arrived at the airport we were met my a Nefesh B’Nefesh representative who guided us through the process of going to passport control, then busing to the absorption office at another terminal, receiving some information as well at the first part of our absorption package (health insurance, a little bit of cash) and then busing back to collect our bags from baggage claim. It was after that that I was met on the other side by family and friends – it was amazing! They greeted me with gusto, signs and cookies! Being reunited with people that I love and haven’t seen in a long time made up a bit for having to say goodbye to people that I love and will miss back in America. It’s hard to sort out all the feelings which I have learned aren’t mutually exclusive. It actually is possible to feel upset, sad, confused, broken-hearted and overwhelmed regarding leaving America, the life I know, comfort and family and friends while also feeling excited, happy, determined, and anxious to figure out what adventures are to come regarding my new life in Israel.
For the first time in my life, I’m now living in an apartment in my own room (which is kind of sweet by the way – I have 2 porches off the room that bring in a ton of light and cool hang-out space) while being completely responsible for everything that I do and don’t do. This move for me represents taking an active role in my life, growing up and making headway in my personal growth. I didn’t just want to cruise along – I’m ready now (or at least I hope and think I am) to be making some big choices and moving forward instead of being stagnant.
The next steps are now to finish unpacking, pick up my Teudat Zehut (certificate of citizenship – which I will be doing today), sign up for Ulpan (Hebrew classes) and figure out what to study in school for a Masters and where to do it. Wish me Luck!
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