Saying goodbye to my family and my home for a semester abroad with NFTY's High School in Israel (Jerusalem) was one of the hardest things I've ever had to do. Leaving home, I understood, was one of life's terrifying, yet important events. Though it was not a permanent move, it was nonetheless a challenge that kept me thinking long and hard into the night. Amidst these rough waters, a friend's words helped me to make the decision to finally pack my bags and blurt out a "sayonara" to the world as I knew it. She had simply said, "Face your fears."

True, it's pretty cliché, but at the time, it was just the kick in the rear I needed. The opportunity to travel to Israel was enormous, and I couldn't let fear deter a potential life-changing experience. As my confusion turned into clarity, I sliced through the layers of my life for some model of a time when I faced a fear and overcame. I knew that if I could find an example, even just one, it would be easier for me to leave for Israel. After much thought, I came up with a memory from my young childhood: riding a two-wheel bike for the first time. I was scared that after ditching the training wheels, I'd immediately lose my balance and fall flat on my face. But I didn't. I'd wobbled a little at first, pushed down on those pedals, and then rode like the wind. I convinced myself that I would do just fine on this voyage as well.

What ultimately drove me onto the enormous aircraft at El Al's Terminal at New York's JFK Airport–equipped with huge suitcases, a camcorder, my baby blanket, a canteen, copies of Little Women and The Source and a list of 45 new classmates–was knowing what a big deal this was. I would be indulging in worldly adventures, experiencing every taste, smell, and sound of a new country and culture.

Deep inside, I knew I truly wanted to go to Israel in spite of the politics and the risk, and without the comfort, support, and security of having my family and friends nearby. For the first time, for four months, I would really be on my own. My experiences living for a semester on the Hebrew Union College campus, on a kibbutz, with a host family, in an army training camp, and on a visit to Poland and Prague, would be fascinating and unforgettable. Israel is a beloved country to so many religions; I wanted to go there to find my connection to the land, ancient peoples, and tradition. I couldn't wait to be in a country where I could see the stores close and the streets become quiet on Shabbat. I knew I would inevitably return home a stronger person, having enjoyed the journey of a lifetime–without training wheels.

Marcus graduated from the Worcester Academy in Worcester, Mass. She participated in Genesis at Brandeis, and was an international student at NFTY High School in Israel. Lauren loves theater, creative writing, dance, and international relations.