This year, along with Moreh Alan continuing to write the weekly D’var Torah, he will be inviting faculty and staff to contribute as well. This will provide a wonderful opportunity for our community to hear from and get to know more of our team. We hope you enjoy this new addition to our communications and the diverse perspectives it will bring.
About Morah Ayelet:
Now in her fourth year at The Toronto Heschel School, Morah Ayelet is a dedicated SK teacher who brings over 13 years of experience teaching within the Jewish community. Her passion for working with young learners shines as she nurtures their curiosity, fosters foundational skills, and guides them through a year of significant growth.
In Parashat Vayeshev, we encounter the story of Yosef, a young man who faced tremendous adversity. Despite being favored by his father, Ya’akov, Yosef’s life takes a drastic turn when his brothers sell him into slavery out of jealousy. Later, he finds himself imprisoned in Egypt after being falsely accused by Potiphar’s wife.
Yet throughout these challenges, Yosef remains hopeful and steadfast. He does not let despair or bitterness consume him. Instead, Yosef continues to believe in his dreams and his potential. Even in prison, he interprets the dreams of his fellow prisoners, eventually leading to his rise as Pharaoh’s trusted advisor.
The Torah teaches us:
וַיְהִי ה’ אֶת־יוֹסֵף, וַיְהִי אִישׁ מַצְלִיחַ
“And God was with Yosef, and he became a successful man.” (Genesis 39:2)
This verse reminds us that Yosef’s faith in Hashem and his abilities enabled him to persevere and succeed. It wasn’t his circumstances that defined him but rather how he responded to those circumstances with courage, hope, and trust in Hashem.
At The Toronto Heschel School, we teach our students the importance of resilience and staying hopeful, even in challenging times. Yosef’s story inspires us to:
Believe in ourselves, even when others doubt us. Just as Yosef never gave up on his dreams, we must remain confident in our abilities and aspirations.
Find light in the darkness. Even in prison, Yosef chose to use his talents to help others. This reminds us that we can make a difference, no matter where we are.
Trust in Hashem’s plan. Life may take unexpected turns, but maintaining faith strengthens us to move forward.
Support others in their struggles. Yosef’s compassion for his fellow prisoners led to his redemption. We can find hope not only for ourselves but also in helping those around us.
As we reflect on Yosef’s journey, let us remember the importance of steadfastness and hope. Whether we face challenges in school, friendships, or personal goals, may we learn from Yosef’s example and approach each obstacle with faith and resilience.
This week let’s also remember our Middah, which is “Remember those who have helped you.” Take a moment to acknowledge and thank the people who help us through difficult times: our families, teachers, and friends. Just as Yosef ultimately reunited with his family, we, too, can find strength in our connections with those we love.
May Yosef’s unwavering hope inspire us to face challenges with faith, courage, and determination.
Shabbat Shalom
Morah Ayelet
