"My country tis of thee, sweet land of liberty..."

Intense patriotism pulsed through us JAMers, as we gathered for the a 4th of July to remember. The fact that it was juxtaposed to a sober day and a trip to the US Holocaust Memorial Museum, further increased our love for America, as we realized what a great country we live in. So it was only right to spread that cheer around, and we did so through Washington, DC's homeless community. We passed out socks, food, and smiles, but in the end, they helped us more. Through our conversations, (Jon, you always find those Yankees fans!), they taught us to count our blessings and to see the person behind the face--for that we could never thank them enough.

We went straight to the Smithsonian Folklife Festival and learned about other cultures using all of our five senses (Jesse says the ginger chicken rocks!). The most moving experience for involved the "Peace Tree" that Billy and Dan discovered. Anyone could write a wish and then tie the paper to the tree. The papers will be collected and sent to Japan, where some will be displayed. My wish was "May my children never know of war, and may those that know be comforted."

And then JAM got the party started! Decked out in our most patriotic apparel (Ben and Susie--I only have two words--so cool!), we had a massive barbeque and sang classic American songs. Then we walked to the most spectacular display of fireworks the USA has to offer. We had prime seats and could feel the tremor of the Capitol as it celebrated the signing of the most important document ever! Reflecting later over apple pie, we could still feel the depth of history surrounding us, and were filled with the hope and the want to further perfect the country we love. We, JAMers, know that we will make this country even greater; we know that we won't let America down.

G-d bless the USA,
Ilana
JAM '07

P.S. Kasher Koach to Alexa for a spiritual and reconnecting meditation minyan this morning! It was wonderful!