The appreciation of one’s legacy is crucial for one’s dignified survival. As a Jewish educator I prefer to point to Judaism as a priceless gift rather than a heavy burden. I prefer to point out its benefits rather than focus on its requirements. I believe we must offer the students at DKJA strong reasons to be inspired about Jewish life. They should come to realize that Jewish life offers so much for our own benefit, our own spiritual enrichment and our own personal destiny. Below are seven crucial factors for educating our children and building a vibrant DKJA Jewish community.
1. Sense of a shared destiny which subsumes Jewish self-esteem, pride in being human and pride in being Jewish.2. Sense of self-reliance which incorporates aiming for excellence and success. We must cultivate an enterprising spirit; ingenuity, perseverance in coping with social and economic demands.
3. Faithfulness to our community, that comprises loyalty, hope and a conviction of our peoples Divinely promised indestructibility and ultimate redemption.
4. A sense of solidarity, community responsibility, based on the idea that all Jews are responsible for each other.
5. An appreciation of Israel, Hebrew language and Hebrew culture. Recognizing the gift of the State of Israel and its contributions, and its unique ability to offer the Jewish people the right to self-determination as a Nation and a People.
6. A sense of duty and commitment which includes dedication to Torah study and practice, respect for law and morality.
7. An appreciation of Judaism as a gift; recognizing the joy and excitement of Jewish living, and realizing the contribution of Judaism, viewing it as a religion vital to the other nations of the world.
Shabbat Shalom and Good Shabbos!
Rabbi Baruch Plotkin, MJEd.
Rabbi in Residence, Donna Klein Jewish Academy
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