There have been lots of tears around The Akiva School these days, and it’s the parents and grandparents who are crying. They are the very lucky ones who are witness to the myriad of Chagigot, celebrations of Jewish learning, that are taking place. These chagigot inspire, influence and motivate us, year after year. The grade one children just received their own siddurim (prayer books) in a meaningful ceremony with parents and grandparents; grade two is celebrating the start of their study of Bereishit (the Biblical book of Genesis), sharing all they have already learned; kindergartners will invite their parents to share in their weekly Shabbat party, demonstrating how well they know how to welcome and embrace this special day.
Marking these special milestones in the journey of Jewish learning is integral to us as a Jewish school. We rejoice in what our children experience, in the new ideas they are exposed to, in the deep questions that they ask. We recognize that these moments take on added meaning when they are shared, and when the children bask in the sense of accomplishment and pride that comes with showing what they’ve learned to mom and dad, grandma and grandpa.
And the tears? They are tears of joy and nostalgia, because we see our children growing and learning, perhaps knowing more already than many of us have learned, and surely giving us confidence in the future of the Jewish people.
So let’s get the tissues and be ready for our next celebration.
