By Leila Bidad
Sukkot Shabbat was one of the most diverse and unique experiences for me. A couple of my friends and I carpooled to the Rabbi's friend’s house for the first time, and everyone was so welcoming. After friendly introductions, the boys took poles and connected them in order to build a huge tent called a: "Sukkah." The girls held each "wall" as the boys placed wooden and branch-like material on top of the hut to create a place similar to wilderness. This outer area symbolized the shelter that G-d provided for the Israelites in the wilderness they inhabited after they were freed from slavery in Egypt. After the hut was made, we placed decorations, picture posters, chair and tables, and food inside. We went inside, had Kiddush (wine) and bread that followed a set of prayers. After the ceremony we all enjoyed the meal, and learned about other Jewish traditions. The most interesting part of the ceremonies was the gathering of the Hadass (myrtle), lulav (palm frond), aravah (willow), and etrog (citron) that when waved, attest to G-d's mastery over all of creation. The night ended with celebration and togetherness; a common theme that continued throughout the event.