As we step into the new year of 5787, I find myself thinking a lot about the Jewish idea of beginning again. Moving through Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur over the last few weeks gave me a chance to pause, reflect on the year behind us, and think about the year ahead. More than anything, it left me feeling incredibly open to what’s next and excited by the possibilities.
These holidays are a yearly reminder that growth is a continuous journey. We can build on our experiences, carry forward what we have learned, and continue growing into the people we aspire to be. Our tradition views renewal not as erasing the past, but as the opportunity to keep building upon it. This concept allows us to step into what comes next with hope, purpose and intention.
This year, that theme feels especially relevant to me as I begin a new chapter as the new Principal of the Bialik Himel Branch.
And in many ways, my beginning mirrors the beginning taking place all around our school.
Our students are starting a new school year. They are walking into new classrooms, meeting new teachers, making new friends and discovering new challenges. Some are returning with confidence; others may be carrying a few nervous butterflies. For every child, however, a new school year offers the opportunity to grow, to try something new and to discover a little more about who they are becoming.
I find this connection incredibly meaningful.
The Jewish people have long understood that renewal is not a one-time event. Each year, we are given the opportunity to look inward and then look ahead. We hear the Shofar calling us to wake up, to pay attention and to consider the person and community we want to become.
There is a poignant moment in the biblical story of Avraham when he is called to leave what is familiar and journey toward something new: Lech Lecha, go forth. Avraham could not see the entire path ahead. He simply had to take the first step.
That is what beginning requires: the courage to take that first step without knowing exactly where the journey will lead.
This year, our students are taking those steps. And so am I.
As I begin my journey at Bialik, I am filled with gratitude, excitement and a deep sense of possibility. I look forward to learning alongside our students and staff, getting to know our families and building upon the remarkable foundation of this community.
May we all embrace the beauty of this new beginning. May we give our children, and ourselves, the space to grow, to take risks, to learn from our experiences and to imagine what might be possible.
And may this New Year remind us of one of Judaism’s most enduring gifts: we are never finished becoming. Each year offers us another opportunity to grow, to dream and to begin again.
G’mar Chatimah Tovah.
Wishing you and your families a sweet, joyful and meaningful year ahead.
Jen Lev
Principal, Himel Branch