Self-Reflection from Israel
by Rina Liebeskind
Rina Liebeskind is the Education Director at Kol Ami Synagogue, traveling to Israel for an Educators’ Mission sponsored by the iCenter, the Jewish Education Project, and Shorashim. The goal of the mission is to show support to Israel by meeting with educators, hostage family members, and officials. While there, Rina will have the opportunity to volunteer and also tour some of the displaced community sites. As a visiting educator, Rina will bear witness to the events of October 7th and its aftermath and share her first-hand experience with learners back at home.
Shalom from Israel!
A group of twenty or so educators gathered at the Dan Hotel Tel Aviv by the Mediterranean Sea to kick off the solidarity mission to Israel.
Our first speaker was Hanoch Piven, who is an award-winning illustrator, educator, and seasoned creative instigator. After explaining his work, he encouraged us to create self-portraits using a variety of everyday objects to express our own journeys in times of turmoil.
When facing a tragedy, some may choose to avoid the subject. Others may seek help. For me, being well means that I have to work harder to maintain balance both mentally and physically. The vitamins and straws are there to help with nourishment and staying healthy to help others. The mouth is a staircase that reflects the constant battle of climbing to reach the top, only to discover more steps along the way.
As we were ending this activity, the sun was setting on the beach, and it helped me feel a bit more hopeful for better days to come.