By Abby G.
The first shabbaton of the year for the Diller cohort was the Jewish Identity Shabbaton at the Pearlstone. The focus was creating a deeper connection between the fellows and inspiring them to think more about their own personal Jewish identity. Abby G. an 11th grade student at GW Carver, reflected on the powerful experience with her cohort over shabbos.
Navigating Expectations: From Nervousness to Connection
Heading into the Jewish Identity Shabbaton, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. While I looked forward to getting to know the group better, I was apprehensive because I didn’t know everyone very well. The schedule gave me an idea of the weekend’s structure, but the unknowns about group dynamics and activities made me uneasy. I thought the Shabbaton would lean more toward being a social event than a spiritual one, but I was pleasantly surprised by how deeply I connected with my Jewish identity.
Discovering My Jewish Identity: A Pluralistic Journey
The Shabbaton offered me an opportunity to explore my Jewish identity in ways I’d never experienced before. Coming from a background where my interactions were largely within my own religious level, I had never participated in a pluralistic setting. It was fascinating to see Jewish teens my age from diverse backgrounds observe Shabbat together in their own ways. Some were strictly traditional, while others took a more flexible approach, each with unique customs.
This experience opened my eyes to different ways of connecting with Judaism that I hadn’t encountered before. It made me feel more at ease with peers who practice differently and enlightened me about new approaches to Jewish life. I now see my place within the broader Jewish community more clearly, understanding that our shared heritage connects us despite our differences.
Building Bonds: Strengthening Relationships Within the Cohort
Spending a whole weekend together was transformative for my relationships with the other fellows. It gave us the time and space to connect in ways that short meetups don’t allow. I not only made new friends but also deepened existing ones. I saw sides of people I hadn’t seen before—both serious and casual—which helped me get to know them on a deeper level.
This experience also offered a glimpse into what our group dynamic might look like during the upcoming Israel trip. It’s exciting to think about building on these connections as we share even more impactful experiences. The Shabbaton showed me how spending extended time together can create a sense of trust and camaraderie that’s essential for our journey as a cohort.
A Memorable Moment: The Second Magal Layla
If I had to pick a highlight from the weekend, it would be the second Magal Layla. After a full day of activities, we gathered in a circle illuminated by the soft glow of candles. The scene was comforting and intimate, setting the stage for heartfelt conversations. While the first Magal Layla focused on objects tied to our Jewish identity, the second night’s discussion delved into personal struggles and connections.
Something about the setting—or perhaps the trust we had built over the weekend—allowed everyone to open up in a deeply personal way. The vulnerability in the room was remarkable, and it brought us closer together. This session taught me so much about my fellow teens and created bonds that I’ll carry forward.
Post-Shabbaton Reflections: Gratitude and Growth
Returning home after the Shabbaton, I felt a mix of exhaustion and gratitude. Like many others, I had homework waiting for me, but I couldn’t help reflecting on the incredible weekend. The hugs and goodbyes before we parted left me feeling comforted and excited for our next gathering.
The lessons I learned during the Shabbaton continue to resonate with me. A discussion on the “5 Levels of Pleasure” sparked meaningful conversations that lasted throughout the weekend and beyond. It’s a concept I’ve thought about often since, along with the broader insights I gained about Judaism and community.
A Weekend of Meaningful Connections
The Jewish Identity Shabbaton was more than just a weekend retreat; it was a journey of personal and communal growth. I came away with a deeper understanding of Judaism, a stronger connection to my peers, and an appreciation for the diversity within our shared heritage. This experience not only strengthened my identity but also prepared me for the next steps in our cohort’s journey. I’m looking forward to continuing this growth and connection as we prepare for our Israel trip and beyond.
For more information about Diller, please visit https://4frontbaltimore.org/program/diller-teen-fellows/
