Mitzvah Corps – Reform Jewish Teens Social Action

Aug. 9, 2009
Ani V’atah

You and I will change the world, you and I. Then all will join us. Though it’s been said before it doesn’t matter. You and I will change the world. You and I will start from the beginning. It may be difficult, but it doesn’t matter.” This song was quoted the second weekend at UMC. After listening to the prayer for the first time, I realized I was a selfish volunteer. When I worked at sites, I did so on my own believing I was the only one who could do it right. I reread this prayer numerous times trying to extract the true meaning of being selfless. I made a promise to change, and I did, at least I think so.

I started working with others and learning their techniques and stories. When I went to Regency I worked with a boy who asked a thought provoking question, “Do you volunteer because it helps people, or do you b nb h because it feels good to help people?” I like to think I would volunteer even if it didn’t make me feel fulfilled, but I honestly don’t know. I believe students at UMC come here for both reasons. You have to start volunteering for the reasons you benefit from, only then, once you’re hooked, will you truly see that your effort has helped repair the world.

-Kimmie K.

Aug. 9, 2009
Elohai n’Shamah

Elohai n’Shamah shenatata bi, T’horah hi. You created me. You shaped me. You breathed me into life. I close my eyes. I hear her laugh, I hear her squeal. I hear her breath as she falls asleep in my arms as we float down the lazy river. I close my eyes. I hear her wisdom. I hear her kind words. I’ll miss you. I love you. You’re very sweet. I feel her love. She is old and growing frailer but her heart is only growing stronger. I close my eyes. I hear your voice as we reminisce our. I start a simple conversation. It grows and evolves. We share a moment. I close my eyes. I hear my voice. There are 27 others and to them I now say: “Elohai n’Shamah shenatata bi, T’horah hi. You created me. You shaped me. You breathed me into life.”

-Rani M.

Aug. 9, 2009
Feeding Pranav

“Chew, Pranav, chew!” These words left my mouth often during my time at Daisy. Each time I was assigned Pranav for the afternoon, a feeling of challenge, fear and exhilaration began. Getting Pranav to eat was definitely challenging. For him to eat half of a sandwich, it took almost 45 minutes. This increased both my patience and my appreciation for being able to eat. Overall, my time at Daisy was amazing. I was able to work with kids in three of the four different groups. Definitely an incredible experience.

-Adara B.