One of my favorite moments from the past week was the Gratitude Circle we did on Shabbat as a parting activity for both students and teachers. We all sat in a big circle, and each student and staff member had to thank someone from the group for anything they feel grateful for while tossing that person a piece of delicious American candy. Not only were all students and staff happy to share their gratitude, but we actually had to go around the circle three times because so many “thank-you’s” kept coming up. Students thanked each other for being considerate hosts and wonderful house guests. Students thanked staff for moments of bonding while riding the bus. Educators thanked students for participating willingly and thoughtfully in different parts of the trip. Educators thanked each other for professional enrichment. Gratitude filled the room, and it was a most moving activity to take part in.
As educators, we don’t often get to pick the fruits of our labor. Education is a slow process. But the Morim Limmud program provided me an opportunity to hear and see not only the immediate, strong effect of the program on the students and teachers taking part in it, but it also reminded me that I am taking part in something greater than the immediate.
I am grateful I had the chance to participate in the program for a second year: seeing my students bond with their peers, learn about Hungarian history, discuss their Jewish identity with their peers, and teach them about our school community. I am positive the connections made throughout the trip will continue to enrich us.
