Envisioning a Future of Healing

My dear Chaverim,

As we remember the trauma of October 7 and the resurfacing of our deeply buried fears, we are painfully aware that the vow of “Never Again” became “Again.” The shattering of lives, families, and communities reopened wounds and left us facing a reality of ongoing crises.

Living with unending disruptions and the weight of those crises, educators have been thirsting for support, guidance, and connection. Rooted in the original Zionist values and educational traditions, and drawing on the wisdom of our sages passed from generation to generation, the Village Way has, for the last two years, been providing sustenance, guidance, and empowerment to educators who serve the most vulnerable in our society across all sectors, Jewish and Arab, religious and secular alike.

Inspired by the Ethiopian proverb “Man is the healer of man”, our team works tirelessly every day with hundreds of educators in Israel’s north, south, or wherever needed. With your help, and in response to today’s crisis, we train educators to become “Teacher Healers." We believe that teachers not only have the capacity to provide solace and direction to a young generation growing up in crisis, but can also guide an entire society dealing with trauma.

The October 7th calamity hit us at a time of social fragmentation and internal divisions. In contrast, I am reminded of the brilliant Shield of David design created by the late Leonard

Cohen. To me, this Magen David, formed by two interlocked hearts, stands for strength through community. When our hearts are interlocked together, we are one community, shielded and strong. Indeed, the Village Way’s ability to weave together a network of educators representing our social polarities and diversities is in itself an embodiment of a better tomorrow, here and now.

While grieving over the fallen and the victims of this war, I am reminded of Victor Frankel’s words of wisdom. Drawing from his extreme personal experience, Frankel advises that in order to face even the worst of calamities, one should find meaning in the moment, and mobilize the unique human ability to look forward to the future. Even if you must force your spirit to do so, says Frankel, you must look beyond and envision a better future. And that is exactly where we stand now, envisioning a future of healing and reconciliation, and with your partnership, working hard to make it a reality.

Todah for your ongoing friendship and trust. G-d Bless us all.

Chaim Peri

Director Emeritus of Yemin Orde Youth Village and Founder of Village Way Educational Initiatives