FINDING THE LIGHT
For this year’s Matrix Journal we have chosen the theme of Finding the Light: Illuminating our Future. Our world today consists of many hardships and challenges. It is easy to look at the world from a negative perspective, however, there is so much opportunity for positivity. For that reason, we chose to focus on finding the light through a positive mindset.
Our goal was to give the student body an opportunity to interpret this theme and express it through any mode of expression that resonated with each individual.
By doing this, we hope to spread the message that there is always a light in the darkness, and it is up to us to look for it.
A huge thank you to our advisors, Mrs. Alvaranga and Mrs. Parkoff, and to all students who submitted their work. Additional thanks goes out to Mrs. Hassan and Mrs. Bindiger for editing our submissions in Spanish and Hebrew, and Mrs. Chani Kanowitz for all graphic assistance.
ILLUMINATING OUR FUTURE
THE TEAM
TZIPORA WINTNER
Hi! My name is Tzipora Wintner and I am in 11th grade. I love to listen to music and talk to my family and friends. I also love to express myself through literature. I am very happy that I got to contribute to this year’s Matrix Journal, as I have an appreciation for what creative literature adds to a student’s high school experience. Spreading positivity is a passion of mine, so I hope this journal can inspire others to find the light. Enjoy!
Rebecca Berg
Hi! My name is Rebecca Berg. I am in 11th grade and I am so excited to be a member of this year’s amazing editorial Matrix staff!! I have always been passionate about creativity and writing, which makes seeing how each student interpreted our theme of finding the light and illuminating the future an incredibly gratifying experience. I truly believe that focusing on the positivity and hope of our future is what defines us as human beings, and I am confident that SKA’s Matrix submissions reflect this idea. Major thanks to all who contributed :)
Leah Dan
Hi, my name is Leah Dan. I’m in 11th grade. I love to learn new things and I’ve always had a passion for creativity, especially writing. I enjoy writing poetry, stories, and really any type of creative writing. I’m really grateful for being able to be an editor this year, and to have the opportunity to contribute to this creative initiative.
Goldie Kuflik
Hi, I am super proud to have been a part of the Matrix Literary Journal. I enjoy helping others with their academics and the Matrix allowed me to showcase students' academic talents and highlight their unique skills. The Matrix gave me the opportunity as an editor to creatively express myself, however, my creative abilities were highly motivated by this year's theme and the amazing works that students put together.
ESSAYS
My Jewish Way of Life
Rebecca Zimmer
There are many complex religions, each containing their own specific rules and guidelines. My religion, Judaism, contributes significantly to my life. As an Orthodox Jew, I practice a set of 613 laws written in the Torah. Many of these commandments teach me how to conduct myself in a moral and ethical manner. Whenever I am faced with a challenge, I use the Torah as a resource to assist me in determining the right decision. For example, the rule against taking revenge is helpful when I am experiencing a conflict with another individual because the Torah teaches me the most beneficial reaction to have. The Torah is God’s precious gift to every Jew to help them live their best life according to Judaism.
Judaism’s extensive impact on my life extends past my actions to my various thoughts and feelings. In my religion, we believe that God is constantly with us, supporting us even when we don’t understand or appreciate Him. Whenever I deal with personal struggles, I always have a sense that God is watching me and carrying me through my pains. During nationwide catastrophes, such as the Israeli-Hamas war, everybody comes together through the realization that God is in control of everything. This is a life-altering mindset because it can change any situation from a painful one to a hopeful one. I am so grateful for my religion and all the ways in which it improves my life.
A Light Among the Nations
Rebecca Isaacs
As Jews, we learn from a very young age that jealousy, revenge, judging and comparing ourselves to others aren’t good or proper responses. As humans, we may have these types of natural tendencies at first, but as Jews, we are instructed to think deeper into the situation and do self-introspection, and ultimately these feelings should start to fade.
We may think, how does thinking deeper cause these feelings to fade, and how does being a Jew and our Jewish knowledge influence us to think and act differently than our natural human reactions? As Jews, we know everything happens for a reason and it’s all in the hands of Hashem. Hashem looks out for each Jew, providing each Jew with certain traits they need to become the best version of themselves. Many people look at struggles in life as a negative, but as Jews, we are taught that our struggles are actually positive and given to us to help us become stronger and better people.
Usually, when something inconvenient or “bad” happens in a person’s life, the first natural reaction is for the person to think, “Why me? What did I do to deserve this?” But as Jews, as we reflect and think deeper into it, we change our mindsets to “I am strong enough to fight and overcome this struggle.” We aren't expected to say or think, “I'm so happy that this is happening to me”; however, we are meant to look at the struggle and think, “This is happening to me, and there’s a reason for it, and this struggle is here to help me become stronger.”
As humans, we often look at other people with envy or jealousy and our automatic reaction might be to think, “Why them and not me?” But from a Jewish perspective, we need to remind ourselves that every person is given what they need. If you don’t have something that someone else has, you
need to realize you don't need this to make you the person you’re meant to
be, because we know Hashem provides each individual with what they need. In the same vein, when a person wrongs you or does something that affects you negatively, our natural impulse is generally along the lines of “I hate that person,” or “I need to get back at them,” but from our Jewish doctrine, we know that revenge is never the answer or proper response; rather, we need to think outside of ourselves and think about other people. For example, we need to place ourselves in their shoes for a moment and think, “Did they mean to do this thing? And even if they did mean to do this thing, perhaps they are going through something. Who am I to judge?”
Likewise, when we see someone doing something wrong, we or other people may say, “Why would they do that? What are they thinking?” and speak negatively about the person. But, we need to apply this Jewish approach and knowledge before thinking or speaking negatively, which in essence means taking a step back and thinking to ourselves, we might not understand why this person is doing such a thing, but we have to think ‘outside the box’ and realize they are clearly going through something, and this is how they are coping with their struggles.
As Jews, we are taught not to judge others for the way they act since we are not in their shoes. Judaism definitely impacts the way I think and act as a person. However, it is also important to realize and understand human nature, not deny it. The way of dealing with things as a Jew is and should be different from the way the average person, and most of the world (without proper Jewish tradition) may react. It may be challenging at times to always have the appropriate mindset and response; however, as Jews, we always need to remember that we are a light among the nations. We are being watched and we must understand our place in the world and act accordingly.
Silver Wall
TS
Family Project Reflection
Ruth Ginsburg
In creative expressions we embarked on a journey into our families legacies and history. I took this as an opportunity to go on a deep dive, ultimately discovering what makes my family unique. I determined my family has the prominent value of Jewish education woven throughout the generations. My family has donated to various yeshivas, participated in events such as the March of the Living to educate the future generations about the Holocaust, and ultimately brought Jewish education to life within the home environment. I feel debts of gratitude to my ancestors for persevering in these values even though at times it was difficult. Now, when I sit in the classrooms of SKA learning Torah, I understand what and who have brought me to this point and I use it as motivation to continue on this journey. I feel a great sense of pride to come from such an amazing family. I understand and choose to accept the great responsibility that lies ahead- I am the next generation; hence, it is up to me to carry on the legacy. Yes, the torch that will be handed to me is heavy, yet the reward that will come will make the effort worth it. I am grateful for this project as it has provided me with the opportunity to pause in such a fast moving world, taking time to understand where I come from and where I am headed.
Judaism
Chaya Furst
Judaism is not just a religion, it’s a lifestyle. Judaism is the way I live and the way I think. When I walk in the street, God is always with me. When I witness anything, God is with me. Hashem, God, carries me through my life. Hashem impacts the way that I view things. Hashem impacts the way I act.
When I am aware that Hashem is with me, it changes me; I suddenly become aware that I am standing in front of a King, and I change the way I act. Throughout this year and this past summer, I read books on how to recognize Hashem and to apply Him to my life. I once had a choice: I could follow some people who weren’t necessarily doing the right things, or I could leave them behind and do the right thing. Obviously I wanted to be with my friends, but Hashem was with me and I thought about Him and what He would want of me, so I chose the right decision and to do what's right.
This has been how I’ve been living my life lately. Hopefully, I will always live it like that and choose the positive and what's right. With Hashem behind my back all the time, I feel supported and loved constantly, and I get to make the right choices. Judaism and Hashem make me realize that I belong, they make me realize that there is someone always with me, and that I am always loved.
The horrific attacks of October 7 made me more proud to be Jewish. It made me realize and become suddenly aware that Hashem, God, rules our world and controls everything. Judaism is also a religion where we see the good in things, and the good Hashem does for us. From October 7 I’ve learned how to see the good in other things as a Jew. With this war it is so hard to see the good things because it's so horrible, but with Hashem behind me and with the inspiration of the Jewish nation, I learned to focus on the good stories we hear. Obviously, the deaths and tragedies we hear are horrible, but we also have to see the good going on. I choose to focus on the soldiers that are going home and the chesed that the Jewish nation is doing. Judaism is a beautiful religion and a beautiful lifestyle. After October 7, the Jewish people came together like never before. Everyone dropped everything to go help people they didn't even know, just because they were Jewish. Judaism is such a special religion because everyone is family. When I live my life, I carry Judaism with me. I carry with me that I am part of a nation that loves its people and will drop everything to help anyone. Judaism has helped me to view all people as my brothers and sisters, and think positively about everyone. I am Jewish and will always be proud of how it affects the way I live and think.
Bright Future
Eden Israeli
This I Believe
Tamara Fuchs
I believe that you are who you surround yourself with. You gain your values and core beliefs from the people you are with. All your character traits, good and bad, reflect who you choose to spend time with. There’s a reason why the way someone acts is telling for what their family and parents are like. You can’t choose your family, but they impact you nonetheless. You do, though, have the power to choose your friends, so it’s vital you choose the right people who will impact you the most positively.
I am a different person when with different people. From the outside, I have also seen others act differently with different people. I know it shouldn’t bother me because I know I do it too, but when I see someone who is already amazing change themselves for others, I want to grab them and tell them they are amazing and shouldn’t change! But this is the effect people have on people and why I believe that you are who you surround yourself with.
An Important Choice
Kayla Goldberg
Are you less inclined to apply to certain schools and more inclined to apply to others? For better or for worse, the answer to both questions is absolutely yes. As a high school senior, I was looking to apply to a few colleges, all with varying presence of Jewish life. When I was 85% finished with my application for Barnard College, I found myself in a classroom conversation where a peer of mine was describing her experience with antisemitism on the Columbia College campus. Later, when answering the last question on my application, I stared at the flashing words: “Why do you want to come to Barnard College?” and I realized that there was no way to answer other than that I did not wish to attend this university. The truth is that I have no desire to go to a place where I would be in fear for my life as I walked around. I quickly closed my laptop and moved on with the rest of my night, now having one less college application to complete.
Ever since the beginning of time, the hatred of Jews has been present, and emphasized on secular college campuses. Being the daughter of two Penn Law graduates and the sister of a Princeton University graduate, I had big hopes for my college plans: a prestigious undergraduate school, possibly even an Ivy League, the realm of possibilities seemed endless until antisemitism spiked. I would like to correct the common misconception that displays of antisemitism started on October 7th. This is inaccurate. Rather, already existing acts of antisemitism
became more violent and widely accepted. Where once only certain universities were particularly awful to Jews, it is now difficult to find a college that doesn’t despise Jews. Calls for genocide and intifada have become regular, daily chants that are aggressively shouted across many campuses throughout the country. For a nation who preaches acceptance and tolerance, the United States of America is nothing but unaccepting and intolerant of the Jewish people.
As a Jewish teenager, this reality is disheartening, but even more so, it is terrifying. It is beyond disappointing to have to accept the fact that the USA can find excuses for the expressions of every type of person, yet a religion that makes up less than 1% of the world’s population has been and become the most widely accepted devil on the planet. It is eye opening to realize that the country that I live in very clearly and frankly wants me dead. As an American Jew, I find it quite difficult to recognize the ideas that have been painted about me. A country that once served as a sanctuary is now arguably one of the most dangerous for me and my people. The institutions and people that refuse to accept my Judaism very ironically go against many of the ideals that they claim to believe in. If males and females can exist peacefully in this country, why can’t Jews? If I express my Judaism too openly, will I get a kick to the stomach or a punch to the jaw? Unbelievable. The double standards created in this society are truly astounding and remarkable.
Bright Future
Leora Moskowitz
My Family’s Legacy
Sarah Lib
Reflecting on my family's legacy of giving fills me with a deep sense of pride and responsibility. For generations, my ancestors have shown through their kind gestures that giving back to society isn't just a good deed, it is a fundamental part of who we are as a family. Looking into the future, I envision a continuation of this legacy with my children and future grandchildren advocating for generosity and compassion too.
In the future, I envision my children being raised with a strong sense of empathy and a desire to make a positive impact in the world. I see them volunteering with organizations that speak to them, donating to causes they care about, and actively seeking out ways to help. I hope to see them passing on this value to their own children, creating a legacy of giving that extends throughout generations.
Living up to my family’s legacy means being mindful and aware of the needs of my community and finding ways to make a positive impact. It means teaching my future children the value of giving through example. It means instilling in them the understanding that we are all connected and that by helping others, we are really helping ourselves.
Giving back and giving to the community is important because it strengthens the bonds that hold us together as a society. It promotes empathy, understanding and unity. It provides a sense of purpose that comes from knowing that we have made a difference in someone else's life. It sets a positive example for others to follow, creating a ripple effect of kindness spreading farther than you would expect.
As I look to the future, I am committed to carrying on my family legacy of giving, knowing that is not just a responsibility, but a privilege. I want my children to inherit the legacy of generosity that has been passed down to me. I hope that they will eventually pass it on to future generations, ensuring that our family's legacy of giving lives on in the future.
How Religion Helps One View the World
Anonymous
How does religion impact the way you view world events? Religion helps me view world events in a different way than someone who is not Jewish or not religious at all. We Jews believe everything happens for a reason. We can seek the good in bad situations as hard as it is. We know Hashem has a plan and we just have to trust Him. When someone asks who I am, I say, “I am a Jewish 15 year old.” My religion is part of me. It is how I think and how I act. Being Jewish is part of my identity. I am nothing without my Jewishness and it affects the way I view everything in my life.
On October 7th, when the Israel-Hamas war broke out, all the Jewish people were devastated, but we also looked for the good in events like this. This attitude has brought the Jewish nation closer. We see videos of people dancing, singing, making packages for soldiers and so much more. Our religion helps us always see the good. Because I am Jewish I view this event in such a different way than how a Christian, Muslim, or Catholic would view this. I believe that people of other religions are watching this war to see who will win and who will lose, but not us. Instead, many Jews believe that the outcome of this war will be Mashiach coming. This is a huge statement for us to make. We have been waiting years and years for this day to come and the fact that some think it will be at the end of this whole thing is crazy. This statement is evidence that Jewish people are finding hope through this war. If someone truly believes that Mashiach will come after this then that is the only thing getting them through this.
You just have to believe and hope, have emunah in Hashem, because He knows what’s right and wrong. At the end of the day we leave it all up to Hashem because that's what we do. We believe whatever happens, happens for a reason and He knows that we will be able to persevere through it all. That is how religion helps one view world events.
Passing the Torch
Tzipora Wintner
Everyone knows that education is important, but not everyone knows why. Every parent is an educator, so as I prepare for my adulthood and consider becoming a teacher as my profession, I think about why I might want to do this with my life. Educators must learn about their own values, and pass those values onto their children, the students. In doing so, they have the power to impact what the world will become.
As a Jewish student, Tanach classes can seem similar to math or science- I must take tests and do homework which, in a typical student’s mind, “ruins my life.” In reality, however, my education shapes my life, and when it comes to Tanach, it should.
One recent study describing the benefits of education spoke to me, and this is what it said: “A personal benefit to getting an education is the opportunity to grow as an individual…and find yourself. You will be exposed to a diverse set of people and ideas which expand the mind.” These are all major benefits to any education, and they are also all laid out in Tanach for us to discover.
The opportunity to grow? Judaism is all about growth and overcoming obstacles in order to get better. Finding yourself? Judaism is a relationship between myself and Hashem, and I believe that no one can work on a relationship with another entity before she knows who she herself is. Diverse people and ideas? The commentaries on Tanach speak for themselves.
Tanach is our history, but equally importantly, it is our present and our future. The future of Judaism lies in the hands of students accepting what their educators have to offer. I believe that Tanach is the foundation for education and growth. That is why it is my favorite subject to learn and one day teach.
Should Jewish students attend secular colleges?
Jewish Students Should Stick to Jewish Schools
Tamar Rabinovitz
The debate over Jewish students attending secular colleges is not new. For a long time some students have worried about antisemitism on college campuses, while others prioritize the education an Ivy League school can provide. However, following the atrocities committed by Hamas on October 7, 2023, college campuses across the United States have become increasingly less safe for Jews. Students on these campuses have held violent protests against Israel calling for the genocide of all Jews, and colleges and their presidents have not done much to stop it — some have even supported it. These issues only add to the long existing challenge of practicing one’s faith on secular campuses where it is not always easy to observe Jewish law. This is why, though some secular schools have an exemplary education and already existing support for Jews on their campuses, Jewish students should choose not to attend secular colleges because of profound antisemitism and potential challenges they may face to their religious values.
Antisemitism on college campuses is not a new issue; long before October 7th, college campuses have been unwelcoming towards Jews. Incidents of antisemitism date back to 1984 and have only worsened since. One report by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) lists many examples, including “vandalism of Jewish student offices and other property, personal harassment, anti-Semitic speeches delivered on campus and Holocaust-denial ads printed in college newspapers.” These incidents all occurred in the late 1900s and still continue to happen today. Antisemitic speakers continue to be invited to speak at colleges, and many of their speeches contain uncensored antisemitic content. Advertisements denying the Holocaust have and continue to be printed in college newspapers, along with other articles containing antisemitic statements (“Schooled in Hate''). Although organizations such as the ADL and JLIC have worked to support Jews on campus, efforts have not helped prevent or even limit antisemitism, and attacks have dramatically worsened since October 7th.
Hamas’s invasion on October 7th only worsened the already existing issue of antisemitism in secular colleges, making these campuses even less safe for Jewish students. The attack and the Israeli government’s response caused much controversy and led to many anti-zionist and antisemitic protests in the United States, primarily on college campuses. Due to these protests, many Jewish college students have reported that they no longer feel safe on campus. The New York Post reports that prior to October 7th, 66% of Jewish college students expressed that they felt safe on campus (Guzman). However that number plummeted to 33%
once these protests and harassment incidents began. Another poll showed that before the war, 66% of Jewish students said that their colleges were “welcoming and supportive” but afterwards, only 44% could say the same. ADL CEO Jonathon Greenblatt expresses that “Jewish students are experiencing a wave of antisemitism unlike anything we’ve seen before…Since the October 7 massacre in Israel, Jewish students feel increasingly threatened on campus – but college leaders are not doing enough to address this real fear of antisemitism” (Guzman). The New York Post also reports specific incidents of antisemitism, such as pro-Palestinian students banging down the doors of the Cooper Union library while Jewish students were forced to barricade themselves inside for their safety. In addition, a Jewish Harvard student was surrounded and harassed by a group of pro-Palestinan students chanting “shame, shame, shame” at him.
Putting antisemitism and campus safety aside, it is also difficult to follow Jewish law on secular campuses. Most college dining halls are not strictly Kosher, and there are many events and clubs that take place on Saturdays, a day of rest for Jews. University of Pittsburgh student Remy Samuels writes, “Since my first year of college, I have struggled to maintain certain religious obligations while balancing the stresses of school and classes…especially for students in religious minorities, it is extremely difficult to keep religious traditions in college.” Samuels describes particular times where it is difficult to follow Jewish Law. For instance, fast days are difficult, as it is hard to perform well on exams and focus in class without eating or drinking. Passover is also a hard time to be Jewish on campus; it is hard enough to keep Kosher in general, let alone follow all the added restrictions of Passover.
Some in the Jewish community value the education and other opportunities an Ivy League school can provide, and prioritize that value over the concerns that come with attending such schools. The University of Pennsylvania has posted on their website the benefits of attending an Ivy League school, saying, “Ivy League universities share an elite athletic conference, a reputation for academic excellence, and are renowned for their world-class programs.” Ivy League graduates also have access to strong graduate school and job opportunities due to the supportive alumni network and name recognition associated with an Ivy League degree. A report done by the Associated Press shows that “attending an Ivy League university may potentially boost mid-career earnings by 28.7%” (“What It Means to Be Ivy League”). While this is surely true about Ivy League colleges, there are Jewish colleges that provide competitive educational opportunities as well. Yeshiva University is one of them. YU was ranked as one of the top 50 universities, along with Harvard, Columbia, and Cornell (“Yeshiva University Ranked with Columbia”). YU also has an extensive alumni network that helps graduates secure jobs or spots in graduate schools post graduation. In 2021, 98.9% of YU students had somewhere to go post graduation, with 33% heading to a job, 44% to graduate school, and 13% to both (“Post-Graduation Destination Outcomes”). Attending Yeshiva University will still allow students to have good educational opportunities in school and benefits post graduation, while being in a safe, Jewish environment. YU makes it easier for students to follow Jewish law by ensuring that their cafeterias are strictly Kosher and canceling classes and events on Saturdays. There are ample classes on Jewish law and philosophy, time and space for prayer, and a general environment that is consistent with staying true to Jewish values.
With rising antisemitism and challenges following Jewish law on college campuses, Jewish students should choose to attend Jewish colleges rather than secular ones. Despite the high level of education Ivy League colleges offer, it is vital for the Jewish community to make this change in order to protect Jewish students.
Jewish Students Can Be Successful at Secular Colleges
Elinor Malayev
The debate over whether Jewish students should attend secular colleges has been around for centuries. This is because every generation has experienced antisemitism one way or another. However, it has gotten more complicated ever since the massacre of October 7th. Parents worry that their children will be affected by antisemitism on a secular campus. Some also fear that it might affect one’s level of observance in Judaism. While attending a secular college as a Jew might interfere with some students' level of observance, it is more likely to be a positive experience that will enhance a Jewish student's college experience. There are many reasons why Jewish students should have the choice to go to a secular college so that they can succeed and be exposed to the bigger world out there.
Antisemitism is something that has always been around and has affected every generation. However, ever since the increase in antisemitism following October 7th, Jews have had a harder time on secular campuses. Students feel more unsafe now and are in fear with every step they take. Those who claim that Jewish students should not attend secular colleges say that secular campuses are hostile and unsafe, and this can interfere with the student studies. They cite the fact that there have been over 1,100 antisemitic incidents on college campuses since October 7th “a 700% increase compared to last year”(“Antisemitism on College Campuses”). Of course it's hard to deal with antisemitism, especially as a college student, however, antisemitism is not something that Jewish students will only experience on secular campuses. Antisemitism can be encountered at any point in life; one can experience antisemitism or antisemitic comments at work or just by casually walking down the street. It is better to fight antisemitism than to run away from it because, at some point, all Jews will have to face antisemitism and fight it. Students who attend secular colleges will have the opportunity to be exposed to a secular environment and will have an easier time adjusting once exposed to the real world.
Many claim that if Jewish students attend secular colleges they will lose their Judaism. They ask, What will they eat on campus? Are they going to keep Jewish holidays and miss class? Will they stay connected to the Torah, and if so, how? Furthermore, a survey which went out to Jewish students determined that 15 percent of Jewish students feel the need to hide their Jewish identity (Greenblatt). If one is hiding their Jewish identity how will they preserve their Judaism? If anything, wont this just push these students further away from Judaism? However, most secular campuses have local Hillels and Chabads that work with Jewish students to help maintain their Judaism. They learn with the students so that they can stay connected to their Jewish identity, they make sure the students have kosher food to eat, and they engage students in celebrating Jewish holidays and Shabbat. “A simple google search can show the size of the Jewish presence on a certain college campus” (Fruchter). Many secular college campuses have a large Jewish community on the campus and if remaining observant is something that is important to the student, they can easily find out the size of the Jewish community and factor that into their decision.
Secular colleges can expose a Jewish student to so many different classes, courses, extra curricular, and majors that Jewish colleges may not offer. “The Jewish institutions that offer college degrees might not appeal to every Jew, and that’s fine. We should be encouraging and teaching each other to listen to our intuition and critically think about what is the best choice for us- not what the supposed ‘frum’ choice is” (Tiefenbrunn). A Jewish student shouldn’t have to limit their options because a college is secular. A Jewish student should pick a college where they will flourish and succeed. This is especially true because “the stigma of attending schools outside of the Jewish bubble oftentimes deprives Jewish students of achieving their full potential” (Fruchter). As Jews, we are taught to use our talents to expand our abilities. Oftentimes, the most productive way for a young, Jewish adult to reach their full potential is to attend a secular college. There is a misconception within some Jewish communities that going to a secular college won’t add anything significant to one’s life, however in attending a secular college, one can gain the skills that contribute to creating a more well-rounded and intelligent individual. Without the option of attending a secular college that offers Jewish students these opportunities, they may not be able to realize their talents, abilities and full potential.
A Jewish student will not always be confined in a Jewish community. At some point in life they will have to interact with non-Jews, whether in an internship, a job, a certain course or a class. If a student has been in a Yeshivah their whole life, that is important and beneficial for the student’s growth and development in Judaism. However, if they continue into a Jewish college they may have a harder time adjusting to a secular environment once exposed to it in the future. Keeping Jewish students in their comfort zone their whole life will make it more difficult for them to acquire skills to overcome certain challenges in the future that they would probably never experience living in their small world. Jewish students can succeed and thrive in secular colleges while still maintaining their Jewish lifestyle on campus.
I’ve Always Been Unique
Rebecca Spitalny
POETRY
I’ve always been unique,
Told I’ve been born fully complete
From when I was small.
I always knew I’d grow to be so tall
Even though that might take a while and 4-9 was not my wish,
I looked to this as my little secret gift.
While adversity was hard to face,
I learned from my experience that I too can shine,
in my own way.
You see,
in age I stand fourteen,
But maturity has me at twenty-three.
So, now that you know my background,
It’s time you finally see
All the multitudes that are contained within me.
So I’ll start this list with number one: piano, I learn. It's so much fun!
My dear grandmother-oh so sweet,
I now fulfill what she wishes to complete.
Moving forward with number two:
singing is my passion,
my favorite thing to do!
Can’t forget number three:
It's what makes me ME!,
The spunky personality that shines within me.
The last one on this list is number four (which I love and so much adore):
The family I have that supports me through all
my great uprisings, but most importantly, my downfalls.
If I’m being honest there’s just one more,
The passion for writing that I absolutely love and look forward to expanding on more,
There's so much more of life ahead of me,
I Can’t wait to see
what will come of the future that shines so brightly,
While we’re not perfect,
as you can see,
We’ll keep trying until one day we will be.
We Will Escape the Darkness
Leah Yadgerov
Trapped by a moving darkness.
It pushes, it punches, and it destroys.
When will there ever be light in all of this darkness?
The light is Hashem.
Talking to Him gives us hope,
Trust in Him, He knows the bigger picture.
He is going to take us out
From the destructive darkness.
Mi Familia
Michal Mittan
Mi familia me apoya,
Me transmiten calidez,
Felicidad y esperanza.
Amo a mi familia.
Finding The Light
Goldie Kuflik
Feeling of the Seasons
Meira Weiss
Spring Is Coming
Meira Norensberg
Seasons Haikus
Lilly Isaacs
The rain is falling.
Then the sun comes and shines.
Bright, pretty flowers come.
It is snowing out.
The fire is burning bright.
We sit and warm up.
Play at the hot park,
Swim in sparkling water,
Tan by the ocean.
The stars shining bright,
Glowy fireflies in air,
Full moon in the sky.
Leaves fall from the tree.
Happiness is in the air.
Trees giving nice shade.
The leaves are falling.
Everyone’s feeling thankful.
The cold is coming.
It is so dark out.
The snow is falling so fast.
In spring, it’ll be warm.
The flowers are here.
Happiness is in the air.
Can’t wait for summer.
Summer’s finally here.
My complexion is so tan.
Fall should never come.
Lost in the darkness
Feels like it will never end,
But light will shine through.
Snow begins to fall.
Coats to protect from the cold.
Here comes the white sky.
Sky regains its color,
Beautiful sunsets and beaches,
It is getting hot.
Flowers start blooming
Reaching to catch the sun's rays.
Spring is coming up.
Sun
Avital Davidowitz
Where I Am From
Aviva Dashiff
I am from the Hatzalah* radio,
From Clorox wipes and latex gloves.
I am from the gray split-level house,
Loud, energetic, never a dull moment.
I am from the orchids
Freshly sitting on the kitchen counter.
I’m from family conversations and bad eyesight,
From Lynn and Oded.
I’m from the resilience and humor,
From “Good night” and “I love you.”
I’m from silver candlesticks, and the Sabbath day,
I’m from Brooklyn and Mexico,
kabobs, nachos,
From the brother who loves cars,
And the sisters I share clothing with.
Containers in the basement
Holding more memories than pictures themselves.
Colors Alive
Chloe Dershowitz
Stars fill the night sky,
IlluminatLeaves gently descend,
Bright hues amid the bare trees,
Holidays soon near.
Snowflakes gently fall,
Coating streets and bare trees,
Icey breath in the air.
Raindrops gently fall,
Trees and plants in bloom emerge,
Scent of rain in air.
Sun beats strongly down,
Beach, ocean pool, popsicles,
Color on everyone’s face.
ing the dark.
Sparkling they are.
I See You
Shira Yehoshua
I see you.
I see you when the seasons change and little flowers begin to bloom.
I see you when the seasons change and leaves grow bright yellow and green.
I see you when the branches go bare and nature can be any shade of orange or red.
I see the world,
And I see you too.
I see you through the world you grew.
I see the world.
I see it when it leaps in rainbows.
I see it when it laughs in dew and cries in rain.
I see it when it smiles in sunshine and frowns in clouds.
I see the world.
I see the way its flowers bloom.
I see the way its seasons change.
I see the way its trees grow green.
I see the way the leaves change brown.
I see the way the branches grow bare.
I see you too.
I see you when you leap and dance.
I see you when you giggle and laugh.
I see you when you cry.
I see you when you smile, and even when you frown.
I see you.
I see you in the morning dew.
I see you in the evening rain.
I see you after a rainy day.
I see you when the sun shines through and rainbows form.
I see you when I look up at the clouds and the sunshine warms my skin.
Lanterns
Sarah Niasoff
Bright Lights
Sari Gross
Light is shining bright
In the menorah we light
On Chanukah night.
Snow covers the streets.
Drinking cocoa and snowmen,
Peace rests in the world.
The light finally shines
down on the people below.
Spring brings joy to people.
Summer is lively.
Sunscreen, tanning, and sun burns.
Ice cream melting away.
My Family
Rachel Murdakhayev
Amo a mi familia, mis padres me muestran felicidad y me alegran.
Mis hermanos son divertidos y nos hacen reír.
Mi hermana pequeña es mi mejor amiga.
Mi familia es solidaria y cariñosa.
Mis abuelos siempre me ayudan y les encanta divertirse.
Les encanta la naturaleza y conocer gente nueva.
A mi familia le encanta cocinar y reunirse.
Amo a mi familia.
Translation:
I love my family, my parents show me happiness, and they make me happy. My brothers are fun and make everyone laugh. My little sister is my best friend. My family is supportive and loving. My grandparents always help me and love to have fun. They love nature and meeting new people. My family loves to cook and get together. I love my family.
A Family’s Glow
Eliana Shakhoohi
Mi familia me ama, me apoya
me da lo que necesito para ser una buena persona.
Mi familia me aporta luz
me ayuda a brillar.
Ellos me guían en el camino hacia la seguridad.
Translation:
My family loves me.
My family supports me and gives me what I need to be a good person.
My family makes me shine and glow.
My family guides me to safety.
Harp
Avital Davidowitz
Unity
Sarah Owadeyah
–היתה לי קופסת צבעים
:יפה, מדהימה, וחדשה
,היתה לי קופסת צבעים
שבהם גם בהירים וגם כהים
לא היה לי שחור של מלחמה ושואה
לא היה לי אפור של בלבול ועצב
לא היה לי אדום של כעס מיותר
לא היה לי סגול של מלכות ופוליטיקה
היה לי צהוב של זיכרון העבר
היה לי כחול של שלום ורוגע
היה לי לבן של טוהר וניקיון
ישבתי וציירתי
אחדות
I had a box of colors–
Beautiful, amazing, and new:
I had a box of colors,
in which both light and dark
I didn't have the blackness of war and holocaust
I had no gray of confusion and sadness
I didn't have a red of unnecessary anger
I had no purple of royalty and politics
I had yellow of the past memory
I had blue of peace and calmness
I had white of purity and cleanliness
I sat and drew
Unity
Family Legacy Is Important to Thrive
Arielle Fagin
Family legacy is important to thrive.
It shows your family’s means to survive.
Different traditions passed down
So the ideas will always be around.
Your grandparents passed these down to your parents,
Which gave them all kinds of merits.
Now the value is instilled on you.
The only question is, what will you do?
Looking for the Light
Aliza Pinchasov
Looking to the distance,
looking for the light,
and though we may not see it,
below it shines, so bright.
How can we approach it?
How can we get near?
The path is shrouded in mystery,
and bundled up in fear.
I know that I must brave it.
The only way is through.
But in the dark I feel alone,
so I call out to You.
Portrait
Penina Horowitz
Light and Flight
Talia Schupak
Rain Forests
Chaya Sarah Lelonek
I had a box of colors-
Beautiful, dark, and deep:
I had a box of colors,
which are also all shades
I didn't have the blue of the salty sea,
I didn't have the white of a grain of sand,
I had no gold of the rising sun,
I didn't have the ashes of a swimming dolphin.
I had a fever of wet mud,
I had a dark green of large goats,
I had bright green lawns from hearts,
I had a transparent rain without end.
I sat and drew
Rain forests
-היתה לי קופסת צבעים
:יפים, כהים, ועמוקים
,היתה לי קופסת צבעים
גם כל הגוונים
,לא היה לי כחול של הים המלוח
,לא היה לי לבן של גרגרי חול
,לא היה לי זהב של השמש הזורחת
לא היה לי אפר של דולפין שוחה.
,היה לי חום של בוץ רטוב
,היה לי ירוק כהה של עזים גדולים
,היה לי ירוק בוהק של מדשאות מלבלבים
.היה לי שקוף של גשם עד אין סוף
ישבתי וציירתי
יערות גשם
A Flower
Kayla Herman
I had a box of colors -
Glowing, colorful and beautiful:
I had a box of colors,
in which both dark and light
I had no gray of a gloomy cloud,
I didn't have blackness of constant death
I didn't have a winter snow white
There was no clear of annoying rain
I had clear sky blue
I had the pink of the people's smile
I had a lawn growing green
I had the yellow of a rising sun
I sat and drew
a flower
-היתה לי קופסת צבעים
:זוהרים ,צבעוניים ויפים
,היתה לי קופסת צבעים
שבהם גם כהים, גם בהירים
,לא היה לי אפור של ענן קודר
לא היה לי שחור של מוות מתמיד
לא היה לי לבן של שלג חורפי
לא היה שקוף של גשם מרגיז
היה לי כחול של שמים בהירים
היה לי ורוד של חיוך האנשים
היה לי ירוק של גידול מדשאות
היה לי צהוב של שמש זורחת
ישבתי וציירתי
פרח
The Road
Anonymous
Our Light
Lean Dan
Every year, Grandma and Mama took out
a beautiful candelabra for eight days.
They used to tell me
that it was a magical candelabra,
that it would bring supernatural things to our home.
They used to tell me
that people have lit this candelabra for thousands of years.
This was in 1938.
One year later, our candelabra
was taken from us.
Our identity
was taken from us
Our home was
taken from us
And our family
was taken from us.
We were replaced with numbers.
No names.
We were not to be out of place.
We were the enemy.
Now, my Mama and grandma are not around anymore
to light the new candelabra that I bought in 1957.
I discovered that the name of this candelabra is a Menorah.
I will carry on this tradition with my own children and grandchildren.
We must never forget who we are.
They will never take this away from us.
They will never steal our identities.
They will never take away our light.
Leader
Liba Hecht
Leaders create
positive pressures.
They create
a light, a path, a sense of direction.
Leaders instill
a sense of purpose
in all those who follow.
Leadership is a power
bestowed upon those
Who are mirrored
by the ones who come after.
Shabbat
Rachel Loike
We wait for sundown.
We enjoy the small break home.
We see sundown again.
Mi familia me da felicidad
Esther Inoyatov
Mi familia me da felicidad.
Ellos me hacen brillar.
Mi familia me apoya.
Cuando estoy con ellos
me muestran amor.
My family gives me happiness.
They make me shine.
They support us.
When i am with them
they show me love
A Legacy that Glows
Hadassa Klahr
Everything we do has an impact,
Whether remaining who you are or learning to adapt
Choosing what is important to us
And to think that we are truly free.
Deciding our values can be hard
But we want them to be something that others regard
All the different traditions passed down
We hope they will be forever found
Family legacy must survive
So that the future generations can thrive
The Light
Anonymous
Sun-Moon
Elana Silvera
Illuminating the World in this
Traumatic Time in Israel
Naomi Bennun
אֲנַחְנוּ חוֹשְׁבוֹת עַל דְּבָרִים שֶׁיְּכוֹלִים לְהָאִיר אֶת הָעוֹלָם.
לְמָשָׁל רָאִינוּ בִּנְיוּ יוֹרְק הַרְבֵּה חֶסֶד וּמַעֲשִׂים טוֹבִים כְּשֶׁתַּלְמִידוֹת אָסְפוּ בְּגָדִים חֲדָשִׁים לְמִשְׁפָּחוֹת הַמְּפֻנּוֹת
גַּם רָאִינוּ אֶת מֶרְכַּז צַהַ"ל כָּאן בְּפַיְב טָאוּנֶז. כָּאן יֵשׁ בְּגָדִים, נַעֲלַיִם,מְעִילִים, כְּפָפוֹת, כּוֹבָעִים וּמַטְעֵנִים לַחַיָּלִים
אֲנַחְנוּ מִתְפַּלְּלוֹת כָּל יוֹם שֶׁכָּל בְּנֵי הָעֲרֻבָּה יִהְיוּ בְּטוּחִים וּבְרִיאִים וְיִזְכּוּ לַחֲזֹר לְמִשְׁפְּחוֹתֵיהֶם. וְשֶׁכָּל הַחַיָּלִים יָשׁוּבוּ בְּשָׁלוֹם בְּגוּפָם וּבְנַפְשָׁם
בְּיִשְׂרָאֵל רָאִינוּ תְּמוּנוֹת וְסִרְטוֹנִים שֶׁל אֲנָשִׁים שֶׁמְּכִינִים אֹכֶל לְחַיָּלִים, בַּרְבִּיקְיוּ וְסֶנְדְּוִיצִ'ים וְגַם פִּיצָה וְסֻפְגָּנִיּוֹת. כֻּלָּם הִשְׁתַּתְּפוּ בָּזֶה. חֲרֵדִים וְדָתִיִּים, חילונים וְגַם עֲרָבִים
אֲנַחְנוּ כּוֹתְבוֹת מִכְתָּבִים לַחַיָּלִים. בַּמִּכְתָּבִים אֲנַחְנוּ כּוֹתְבוֹת שֶׁאֲנַחְנוּ מְקַוּוֹת שֶׁהֵם יִהְיוּ בְּטוּחִים וּבְרִיאִים וְשֶׁהֵם יַחְזְרוּ בְּשָׁלוֹם לְמִשְׁפְּחוֹתֵיהֶם בִּמְהֵרָה
וַאֲנַחְנוּ מִתְפַּלְּלוֹת כָּל יוֹם: "אוֹר חָדָשׁ עַל צִיּוֹן תָּאִיר וְנִזְכֶּה כֻלָּנוּ מְהֵרָה לְאוֹרוֹ"
Mi Familia
Tehilla Kendil
Mi familia me apoya y da felicidad,
me da amor y calidez,
Mi familia sabe como provocar sonrisas
me ayudan a caminar y encontrar a Hashem.
Translation:
My family supports me and gives me happiness,
It gives me love and warmth,
My family knows how to make smiles help
me walk and find Hashem
Stars Fill the Night Sky
Isabella Lifshutz
Stars fill the night sky,
Illuminating the dark.
Sparkling they are.
Wall
Avital Davidowitz