A message for 5785 from Rabbi Ed Harwitz, Head of School
As we approach Rosh Hashanah, a time for reflection and renewal, we look forward to 5785 with anticipation for the new opportunities for learning and building community at The Weber School. At the same time, our thoughts turn to the events of the past year and the challenges that, as I write, continue to face the land and people of Israel and the world Jewish community.
To offer a source of insight and inspiration for the new year, we share the closing section of a D’var Torah presented by Rabbi Adam Mayer, Dean of Jewish Studies and Mashpiah Ruchani (Spiritual Guide), to Weber’s students and faculty during our Kehillah (all school assembly) last Monday. Centered on the theme of Teshuva, the process of growth and change that guides our thinking and reflection during the High Holidays, Rabbi Mayer explored the symbolism of the calls of the Shofar and how they urge us to engage in self-reflection and listen carefully to the "holy echoes" of our hearts. Rabbi Mayer closed his message with a poem he composed especially for the Weber School community, one that summarizes the growth and renewal that comes through the unique experience of Teshuvah. This text deeply resonated with students and faculty alike, and we invite you to read Rabbi Mayer’s poem and reflect on its message:
"My Eternal Flame __ Got
Turnt up to year 5785
Where I am proud to be alive
And I’m allowed to speak my mind
The shofar sounds, I peek inside
I open up, my heart is wide
I cry out loud, my head held high
But who am I? Who am I?
The holy question:
Can I Find direction
upon reflection and introspection?
Can I look back, see that mis-step,
re-tract, re-gret? Mishap?
Can I rise
to the heights of humanity,
Community gathering majesty?
Returned by the blast of the Shofar, I can.
Together, with hearts that are open -
We can
Live our lives on purpose
And we can
share our blessings with love.
Shana Tova!"
On behalf of the entire faculty and staff and the Board of Trustees at The Weber School, I wish you, your families, and all members of the broader school community a Shanah Tovah u’Metukah, a year of meaningful growth and positive change, one where we are inscribed in the book of life for health, happiness, and peace.
The Weber School
The Weber School, a Jewish Community high school serving students from all Jewish backgrounds, prepares students for success in college and in life with comprehensive academic and co-curricular programs that inspire student exploration, leadership, and Jewish social consciousness. Many of our programs and academies are unique to Weber and can't be found at any other Atlanta-area high schools.
The Felicia Penzell Weber Jewish Community High School admits students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin.
The Felicia Penzell Weber Jewish Community High School admits students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin.
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