A HERO IN MY EYES

This week we unpacked the Purim story with a different slant, and we gave our students a new way to look at a very old story. After retelling the story and reviewing the setting, the plot, and the laws associated with this joyous festival, we spent some time delving into the personality traits of the main characters.  We talked about the hidden attributes of each of the characters, and compared these personality traits to our own strengths and weaknesses.  

We talked about the absence of  GOD in the story of Esther, but of course we know GOD is always watching over us, acting as a puppeteer when needed.  Purim is a story with many twists and turns, and things are not always as they seem.  Although GOD is never mentioned in the megillah, GOD sets things in motion, and intends for each of us to be mindful in a situation, stepping up to the plate when necessary.  Such was the case of Esther and Mordechai, hiding their identities until the future of all Jews was in jeopardy, and then coming forward. We see King Ahashverous, often in a drunken stupor, hiding behind  Haman, a descendant of Amalek, the most evil of all human beings, being defeated only after Esther comes out from hiding, and opens the king's eyes. Unfortunately, we still see the descendants of Haman who continue to plague us even today with acts of terror around the world. 

Finally, we talked about bullies and heroes, and what it means to stand up for what is right. We talked about being honest with ourselves and others, and how we can't hide from the bad choices we make.  We talked about taking action when things are wrong, admitting our mistakes, and coming forward to defend the weak.  From here, students spent some time brainstorming, and described a hero as someone who works hard, is honest, brave, kind, helpful, thoughtful, unselfish, and strong-minded.  A hero is awesome, stands up for themselves and others, makes mistakes, and puts others before themselves.  

To end the week, students were asked to describe their hero,and wrote position papers on why they chose their subject.   We hope to share these stories on Sunday morning at 10:30am.  If you are available, please feel free to join us for these presentations.