Yavneh Academy middle school had the honor to host Rabbi Gavriel Friedman, or “Rav Gav,” who shared an inspirational message. Rav Gav discussed the importance of making a connection with Hashem, using his sense of humor to draw in the students. Rav Gav shared stories to support his point, showing that people don’t only have to speak to Hashem during davening, but they can have Hashem in their everyday lives all the time. Rav Gav believes that making davening a chore by only speaking to Hashem at certain times during the day can reflect a negative relationship with Hashem. He stressed the point that making a strong connection with Hashem early in life is imperative because that will impact the relationships of the students with Hashem for the rest of their lives. The students internalized Rav Gav’s message and have reinvigorated tefillot. Yavneh Academy thanks Rabbi Friedman for this incredible, impactful lecture, and hope to see him at school again. The kids will remember, “Who loves you more than anyone else in the world? Hashem!”