When I first arrived at Achuzat Sarah in August 2019 to start my Sheruit Leumi journey, I was excited to reunite with my kids, meet new friends, and give back to the land of Israel. While I came in open minded, I was also nervous for the unknown that lay ahead. I knew that the language barrier and culture differences between me, an American, and the rest of the staff and children, all Israelis, was going to be vastly different. I knew that this was going to be the biggest, most important challenge of my life. It took some time but slowly and surely everything fell into place.

 

My role as a Madricha was to be there for the kids from the second they woke up in the morning, all the way to tucking them into bed at night. The day consisted of meetings and discussion both in and out of the home. There were meetings with social workers, along with accompanying the kids to doctor appointments, therapy sessions, and special after school clubs. I was challenged in ways that I never imagined. The goal of a Madricha is to make the kids feel at home and comfortable with their surroundings 24/7. They did not have this kind of love and care at their own home due to various unfortunate circumstances. No matter how hard or tiring the day got, the smile never left my face knowing I was there for these kids. I made sure to constantly show the feeling of pride and care I had inside, also on the outside, through my smile.

 

As my time finishes at Sherut Leumi, I can now say that these children have taught me to be hopeful and strong no matter what the situation is. I learned so much from each one of them. I can confidently say that I got just as much from them as they got from me. They have truly shaped who I am today. I am forever grateful to have had the privilege of entering and being a part of these amazing children's lives.