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Dear friend,
Earlier this week, we witnessed a turning point - the return of the living hostages and the first glimmer of an end to the war.
To help communities hold and honor this moment, M² staff curated five resources - each offering a small ritual or gesture that can be done in classrooms, boardrooms, around the table, or even alone. These resources reframe familiar Jewish customs and help us name what has ended, what is beginning, and what remains uncertain.
In Jewish weddings, a glass is broken at the height of joy — a reminder that even in celebration, we remember what remains unhealed. Break a glass to give sound to all we hold, and let silence become prayer.
Kohelet teaches there is a time for everything; Yehuda Amichai said it all happens at once. Between them lies our reality. Create a shared mobile where each piece holds contradictions, turning together in balance and wholeness.
This moment is framed by two Simchat Torahs — one of loss, one of return. Like Torah, our story circles back, always beginning again. Gather to recall the moments that shaped these years and imagine what comes next.
On Shemini Atzeret, we pray for rain “for blessing, not curse; for life, not death.” Gather to share what you’ll carry forward and release. Speak, write, or paint blessings for what will grow from this moment.
Over two years, we’ve gathered ribbons, bracelets, dog tags, and tape — objects holding our longing and faith. Bring them together and ask: what do we keep, release, and learn, as we close one chapter and ready for the next?
We invite you to read an accompanying eJewish Philanthropy article written by Shuki Taylor, "Marking this moment: 5 ways to cross a threshold," reflecting on what it means to cross from one chapter of history to the next - carrying both joy and sorrow, pride and exhaustion - and how Jewish tradition helps us make meaning at such pivotal moments.
As we move through these days, may we help others make meaning of their feelings and remind them they are not alone. As we rejoice and give thanks, we also continue to pray for the remaining hostages to be returned for a proper burial in Israel.
Warmly
The M² Team
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