31 Oct MTC Highlights: Parshat Noach
Sophie Felberg - Office Manager
‘הָיָ֖ה בְּדֹֽרֹתָ֑יו אֶת־הָֽ – Noach walked with the Almighty (Berashit 6:9)
What can we learn from this little, short sentence? How did Noach walk in the way of Hashem, which means to do good to others, and yet the people at the time were corrupted?
Chazal explains that by Noach walking in Hashem’s way, he tried to teach the people how to improve their actions.
Rambam explains that there are different levels of chessed, 8 levels of giving charity to be exact. He tells us that the highest level is to help a person earn his own living. Why? Why is this the highest level? Because when a person helps another person become more self-sufficient you are helping him not once but for a lifetime.
Similarly, when a person helps someone become a better person, a better version of themselves, you aren’t just helping them in that moment, but rather you are helping them accomplish for his entire life. By your positive actions, you are able to influence a change and help a person elevate his deeds and choices and that will ripple to his children and generations to come from him.
The more we are able to implement Torah values and middot out into the world around us, with our actions, with our speech, with our outlook on life, the more we can be a positive influence to the people around us and help flame the spark within them to make a change as well. And the best part is that our actions don’t need to be grand in order to inspire.
The world is upside down right now, it seems somewhat bleak. There’s so much darkness and uncertainty. But by giving a helping hand, sending good wishes, giving over a smile, we can really turn some of that darkness into light.
We can help spread love and kindness which will bring about more light into our days, in our worlds! We can then use that inspiration to elevate our physical surroundings, our personal interactions and help others, as well as ourselves, become a little closer to Hashem.
Wishing all of Am Yisrael a Shabbat shalom.
Student Reflection
Jordana Brandsdorfer - Frisch, NJ - New Milford, NJ
The past month and a half has flown by so quickly. I remember the excitement I felt as I began my year at MTC. From the moment I landed in Israel, the warm welcome at the airport made me feel right at home.
Adjusting to life in seminary and becoming part of the children’s lives was challenging at first. Everything felt overwhelming, and getting to know each of the kids was difficult. However, as I’ve spent more time with them, their unique personalities have begun to shine through. I’ve been building deeper connections by engaging in various activities together.
In the midst of our busy lives, it’s easy to become absorbed in our own concerns and challenges. However, working with the children has shifted my perspective. I am learning to focus less on myself and more on the needs and emotions of others. Each child I’ve interacted with has taught me the importance of being present and attentive. They crave acknowledgment and connection, reminding me that sometimes the simplest gestures—a smile or a word of encouragement—can make a significant difference in someone’s day.
My time at MTC has shown me that focusing on others not only helps them but also fosters my own growth. I look forward to continuing to strengthen these relationships and embracing the opportunities to connect and make a difference in the lives of others.
I am truly grateful for the opportunity to be part of the MTC family.
