Patience, Calm and Positive Feedback
by Chad Finkelstein Old York Road Temple--Beth Am So far this year I have helped out a few different students at my Hebrew school at Old York Road Temple Beth Am, and each one is unique. My first day, I was assigned to help a fourth grade boy who at first, I did not believe had autism. He just seemed like a kid who had a difficult time paying attention, and talked often. As time went on I realized he was not being disruptive on purpose, but that he did not understand subtle social guidelines such as when to stop [...]
Text as a Lens
By Elana Rivel, Associate Director / Two are Better than One, Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 / This quote was written on the front of my bat mitzvah invitation. It was not anything I would be reciting during my ceremony, but it emphasized an important part of who I am – a twin. My brother and I celebrated this milestone together and our parents found a way to further connect who we were to our rich, Jewish tradition. The significance was not lost on me and, in fact, it helped strengthen the lens of how I continue to connect to the world.
One Book, One Jewish Community
By Debbie Leon, Director, Family Engagement / The number seven holds particular significance in Jewish tradition. It is associated with wholeness and completion. Shabbat, our day of rest, is the 7th day of the week. Each Shabbat, 7 people (individually or in groups) are called to participate in the Torah reading (these are called aliyot).