Bedein- Agents of Hope. First Stop Alaska!

Chapter One: Uplifting Shabbat in Anchorage: Stories of Resilience & Positivity

Our journey as a family of independent Shlichim (emissaries) began in the far reaches of Anchorage, Alaska, where we experienced a profound Shabbat at the local Chabad Jewish campus. This gathering not only provided us the chance to celebrate Shabbat in an unfamiliar land but also offered a unique platform to connect with the local Jewish community and international visitors, sharing our collective mission of hope and unity.

The Shabbat lunch, which gathered over 60 guests, became a canvas where Adi and I painted our narratives—each stroke resonating with themes of resilience and optimism. Adi’s presentation, aptly titled “Strength of Love: Humanity & Altruism,” explored the depths of human compassion, drawing parallels from the Holocaust to highlight how acts of love and altruism can redefine our understanding of humanity. These stories, deeply rooted in history, served as powerful reminders of how compassion can motivate future generations toward acts of kindness.

In contrast, I shared my journey into environmental art and the urgent need to preserve the Dead Sea. Through the lens of my experiences as a war photographer in Sderot, I illustrated how art can be a beacon of societal and environmental healing. The conversation naturally wove together the themes of environmental conservation and the broader message of resilience, underscoring the critical role art plays in addressing both societal and ecological challenges.

Together, Adi and I emphasized the power of positivity and resilience, offering the Shabbat attendees a message of hope and inspiration amid life’s adversities. This Shabbat in Anchorage set the tone for our mission, reinforcing the importance of unity and the shared strength that emerges from collective experience.

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Adventurous Ten Days in Palmer, Alaska

Following our enriching Shabbat experience, we set off on an adventure from our base in Palmer, a mere hour’s drive from Anchorage. Nestled in the heart of Alaska’s breathtaking wilderness, Palmer served as our gateway to the state’s natural wonders, offering both the serenity of nature and the thrill of exploration.

The first week was pivotal as we adjusted to a new rhythm—essential after a grueling 32-hour journey spanning an 11-hour time difference. Battling jet lag while immersing ourselves in the local culture and stunning landscapes posed its challenges, yet it marked the beginning of what would be a transformative chapter in our mission.

Our days in Palmer were filled with short yet impactful trips, each one deepening our appreciation of Alaska’s natural beauty. Balancing these excursions with our daily routines allowed us to manage our energy and schedules effectively, enhancing the joy and depth of our experiences.

The Alaskan weather, a blend of rain, sunshine, and clouds, with temperatures ranging from 16°C to 8°C, added an element of unpredictability to our days. As we entered the season of the Northern Lights, our excitement grew, eager to witness this natural spectacle firsthand.

As summer slowly receded in Alaska, our excitement only intensified. We knew that 20 more days of adventure and meaningful connections awaited us, each one a step further in our mission of hope and unity.

Join the Bedein Family on a Mission of Hope and Unity: A Sustainable Travel Saga

Join us, Adi and Noam Bedein, along with our spirited sons, Lavie (8) and Itam (5), as we embark on a journey across the United States and Central America. This is not just a travel narrative; it is a mission—a deeply engaging effort to empower and enrich diverse communities through interactive and educational experiences. As a Sustainable Family Travel Blogger, I am thrilled to share how we seamlessly integrate eco-conscious travel with meaningful community engagement, all while staying true to our mission of hope and unity.