3 years ago my friend Rachel made aliyah.

2 years ago, my friend Rachel did not speak much Hebrew.

1 year and 9 months ago, my friend Rachel made one of the most important decisions of her life.

1 year and 4 months ago, my friend Rachel joined the army.

Rachel took a chance.

Rachel followed her dream.

Alone, Rachel began her journey, not knowing where it would lead her.

Rachel began her service in the Israeli Defense Forces in December of 2012.

Slowly learnt the ropes.

Slowly learnt Hebrew, making funny mistakes along the way.

1 year and 4 months in the army.

Today, my friend Rachel recieved her award of Excellence from the Israeli army. 

Understandable, that these ceremonies take place all of the time in the army.

I have been to many ceremonies and watched happily as many people receive the award of Excellence.

This time it felt different.

As I looked on at the ceremony, I could not help but smile. I felt so proud. So honored.

My friend Rachel, as an Olah Chadasha, decided to join the army and to help serve the country she so deeply loves.

She joined alone. Speaking barely any Hebrew. She had NO idea what was to come, what to expect.

She dedicated herself to her service, worked hard and learned Hebrew along the way.

Today is proof of her dedication. Of all the effort and perseverance she put into her decision.

She recieved the Award of Excellence.

She started at the bottom of the ladder and climbed all the way to the top, and succeeded beyond what we thought capable.

As she walks up to recieve her award, the room explodes into cheering and she is radiating. 

To me, she emits perseverance, determination, courage, strength, inspiration and most importantly EXCELLENCE.

WELL DONE RACH, WE COULD NOT BE MORE PROUD OF EVERYTHING YOU HAVE ACCOMPLISHED.