Pardes....you should try it

On my way to Israel last week, I ran into the husband of a former Lincolnite.  Not only were we sitting on the plane next to one another, but we were both enrolled in the Pardes Executive Learning Seminar as well.  Of course after three years of attending Pardes, many of the other faces in attendance at the seminar are familiar as well.  It has become somewhat of a small group that returns year after year to study together, grapple with  Jewish texts, and tour parts of Israel.  There is something comforting about seeing individuals once a year this way, Whether we are sitting down to lunch, chanting the birkhat ha-mazon, listening to lectures, or doing partner study, the atmosphere somewhat reminds me of the days when I was a young camper at Ramah.  There is an obvious love of Judaism and the Land of Israel that binds us all together.  I was thinking how wonderful it would be if we could actually get a few more adults to join me next year.  I have seen at least three individuals here from Kansas City....which is somewhat in our neighborhood.  If you think that a 5 day intensive study program in Israel would help round out your life, then let me know.  I will fill you in on the way you too can become involved.  Take it from me...it is one of the best "presents" you can give yourself!