RABBI GABI KALTMANN

There is a noteworthy expression from the book of Kohelet: “V’hachai yiten el libo”. Translated directly, it means “the living should take to heart.” It’s a phrase that is used after a person passes away and encourages reflection from a sad event. It helps redirect the grief and feelings of helplessness that a person may feel to do Teshuva and learn from all that was good about their loved one.

With Yom Hashoah about to be commemorated, followed by Anzac Day, it is an phrase I have been thinking a lot about. Despite more than 100 years since the end of WWI and 75 years since WWII, the effects of the senseless deaths of so many young people continues to haunt our national consciousness. On Anzac Day we stand as one, thinking about the sacrifices made for us so that we can lead better lives.

In a world that seems to edge ever closer to war, we are roused to consider the expression “V’hachai yiten el libo”. Their sacrifices were not in vain and their memories live on. We, the beneficiaries of their sacrifice, have the responsibility to live a life that appreciates what they gave for our freedom and our country. We know that it is hard to move on from pain and tragedy, but the circle of life continues. Living well can mean increasing our appreciation of the small things in our lives. When you put the question “what does it mean to live well?” into Google, the response is telling. The first listings are all about luxury and expensive items – a superficial understanding of what it means to “live well”.

But the second set of results speak to a deeper understanding. The results are focused on happiness, on finding your passion with people that are important in your life. And that’s the real crux. Living a full and decent life is about living with a full heart and soul. Tragedy can be used to refocus and sharpen thinking, to make sure one focuses on what is really important.

Intensive support for learning Hebrew made it easier for him to adjust quickly. Despite being far from his family, Daniel relishes his independence, celebrates Shabbat and Jewish holidays, feels more connected to Judaism and has broadened his horizons.

Daniel Azulay, Year 9 at Mosenson Youth village: “School is enjoyable for me because of the numerous friends I have and the fun activities we do together. My friends and I play soccer every night and during Jewish holidays we learn about Jewish culture, which fascinates

Anat Aloni, Naale's regional manager for Australia and Oceania, joined the organisation in 2019. With a background in communications, business development and networking, Anat has worked in the Jewish community for upwards of two decades. That included serving as a project officer with the Jewish Community Council of Victoria. She believes every child has the right to shine. “Naale provides an incredible opportunity for students to live and study in Israel, achieve academic excellence and experience personal growth. Naale overcomes barriers in education, language, socialisation and culture. It helps students mature and to become self-sufficient and resilient, while forming lifelong friendships. Students develop a profound bond with their homeland and their community. And for those that opt to stay in Israel, Naale provides the most effective platform for successful integration”.

For more information, email naale. australia@gmail.com or log onto https:// naale-elite-academy.com

Rabbi Gabi Kaltmann (left) with his grandfather Joseph Kaltmann, who survived six concentration camps