Moriah middle school’s first full day of color war began with a motivational speaker, Jon Pritikin. The program, entitled “Feel the Power,” opened with amazing feats of strength as students watched Jon roll up a frying pan and bend a steel bar held between his teeth. Their attention was fully captured by his strength, but it was Jon’s story that was truly inspiring.

Jon spoke of a child who struggled both academically and socially in school. He did not have many friends, was isolated and ate lunch alone daily. This boy was made fun of for having special academic needs, and was bullied because he was different. He had difficulty speaking and did not even feel supported by his teachers. Eventually, the boy went on to high school where he met a teacher who taught him how to speak, read and write. He continued on to college and eventually made it into the Guinness Book of World Records.

Jon conveyed the importance of being a “hero,” and that acting in a supportive and caring way can change someone else’s life. He urged our students to be each other’s heroes by standing up for one another and doing what is right. Jon shared that if that boy had a friend who stood up for him, it would have made a significant difference in his life.

Not only were our students captivated by Jon’s heartfelt message, but they connected to Jon’s warmth, honesty and raw emotion as reflected by the insightful questions they asked. Color war and our upcoming costume day for Shushan Purim are perfect opportunities for our children to work on including others and fulfilling Jon’s message.

Moriah would like to thank The Afikim Foundation for their generous support in making this event possible.