* Translation by Yehoshua Siskin ([email protected])
We were privileged to spend Shabbat with residents of Sderot who are staying at the VERT hotel in Jerusalem.
I was most inspired to see the detailed schedule that the Sderot youth had prepared for Shabbat. I could only imagine what their Shabbat was like two weeks ago, what they have gone through since then, and how important it is for them to raise their spirits at this time.
The opportunity given to my husband Yedidiya and myself to speak before this group was a treasured experience, but the highlight of Shabbat was the reading of the final verses of the Torah by Rabbi Amram Abergil, the Chatan Torah, followed by the traditional children's aliya to the Torah. Those assembled threw candy at the kids -- a treat that was delayed by two weeks -- with tears of pent-up emotions rolling down their cheeks.
I saw with my own eyes how the youth of Sderot embody resilience, community spirit, and the determination to rebuild. We met precious souls who have no plans yet of when they will be able to return home, in the midst of such uncertainty, had the wherewithal to take the time to plan a most meaningful and memorable Shabbat for all concerned.
Shavua tov and may we all hear good news.
