A Listening Ear
To say it’s been a tough week is an understatement. As an Executive Director of a Hillel, I’ve found myself mired in thoughtful, though at times contentious and painful, conversations with family members, best friends, community members, and even myself. When I think about my own mental health during this week, my thoughts immediately go to our students. If I’m struggling, I cannot imagine how our college students are struggling. Along with Jewish communities across the world, we, as a Hillel community, are deeply shaken by the recent escalation of violence in Israel as well as the rise in antisemitic attacks on our people globally. What happens in Israel impacts us - from current students and alumni living there and those with loved ones throughout the region to those of us here in the States who feel deeply connected to Israel and to peace. We know that so many things can be true at one time, including wanting to know and learn more about Israel and its history and needing to take a break for your own mental health. We are relieved to hear of a cease-fire but know that antisemitism is still raging across the globe and in the palm of your hand via social media and therefore, know that healing is still waiting to begin.
What happened in Israel over the last 2 weeks cannot be boiled down to a simple infographic or social media post. These mediums can be helpful conversation starters but certainly cannot offer a full, comprehensive learning. If you want a safe and respectful place to engage in dialogue, please know that your Hillel at Miami professional leadership can be that safe place for you. If you need to debrief the inundation of social media images and information, we are here for that too. If you want a safe space to ask questions bouncing around your heart and mind, we are here. We strive to create a space for the sake of greater understanding, empathy, and compassion.
Reach out with a DM or check our website for updated learning resources. In the meantime, if you go back to my blog post from May 11, you’ll see at the bottom that I’ve updated the post with more in-depth resources. No matter your politics or beliefs, we are here for you to listen and support and continue the conversation earnestly to pursue peace. There is no ‘one size fits all’ to the Jewish people and there is no prerequisite to enter into a conversation with your Hillel staff other than an open heart and mind. You are enough. In the meantime, know that we see you and we are here for you.
Shabbat Shalom,
Whitney
