Newspaper headlines called it “the snowstorm of the century.” My kids complained that Israel was the most boring, most freezing place they had ever been. But finally the sun came out again and we embarked on a history and geography lesson beyond the realm of any textbook.

I shall be thankful to the wise Rabbi for this Bracha/ Blessing he bestowed on my son – and to the young soldiers who made him feel a real part of their celebration – because they captured his heart - forever.

Peace is so important to us. Because nothing good happens to people during war; whether you survive or you don't.

I was determined to learn the language, learn about the people and connect with several organizations I had become familiar with over the years.

The incredible story of Eleazar Shafrir: a Holocaust survivor, hero from Israel's War of Independence, and founder of the Center for the Study of Diabetes at Hadassah Medical School. On the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the State of Israel, Eleazar lit a torch in the state ceremony on Holocaust Remembrance Day.

On the eve of Passover 1948, Rabbi Moshe Saks, known as Bud to his family and friends, was stationed in Jerusalem's Talpiot neighborhood, trying to figure out how to get Passover supplies and ammunition to the embattled Haganah soldiers in the Makor Haim neighborhood.

After hearing so much about the Promised Land, The Land of Israel, it was a thrill to be able to visit!

The Kotel. There it was. I kept starting to walk and stopping because it was such a big deal to me that I didn't want to rush it. I wanted to take each moment inside myself, register it emotionally, spiritually, mentally. Very powerful.

Frank Adam - Seeing the Land of Israel grow and flourish throughout the years has put a lot of meaning and pertinence on being Jewish.

Nicole Hollander - No time in Israel is as moving as your first. The moment when you realize Israel is your home, your paradise, it becomes even more special to you.

Barry Greene, Ph.D. - Every day was an experience, but one of the most wonderful, remarkable, and memorable experiences occurred each evening with my co-Ulpanists on the Kibbutz Ulpan Program.

John Carson - I threw myself into the whole kibbutz volunteer experience and worked every job. I met some amazing travellers and Israelis who I still call friends today. Best times of my life.

Carol Fineblum - Perhaps Nachlaot in Jerusalem is not the Temple Mount. But it surely came close to being that in June of 2010.

Paul Antell - I was born a Zionist and my love for Israel has grown each year of my life thanks to the inspiration of my mother.