(Courtesy of OurMishpacha) Imagine two Jewish families in completely different cultures. The chances of their paths crossing seems insignificant, especially when our nation is so small. However, through the OurMishpacha program, they began to forge a special bond of love, connection and mutual appreciation. These two families are helping to turn the Jewish nation into the biggest family on earth.
At first, Dalia and Yedidya Nakesh from Israel hesitated to join the program. There were many concerns: workload, complexity and distance. But they decided that this was a unique opportunity to open their hearts to a new relationship beyond the sea and to be part of greater unity among Jews.
Meanwhile, Arnie and Esther Stein from the United States sought a way to connect with Israel, experience the culture up close and meet new people. The OurMishpacha program seemed the best way to do that.
The first Zoom call was magical. The two families immediately discovered a special connection and a surprising closeness. Conversations flowed easily, and there was a strong desire to get to know each other, learn and share. They told stories. Laughter commenced, as did a deep sense of a common destiny.
Their bond deepened rapidly. Frequent WhatsApp chats, Zoom calls filled with laughter and warmth, and even Yedidya, a soldier in the reserves, found time to join and connect. Over the last few months, this connection became a source of strength and support for both families.
The Nakesh family told the Stein family about the soldiers serving in their kibbutz. The Stein family, excited about the special connection, decided to take action. They packed boxes of gifts, traveled to Israel, and arrived at the kibbutz, where they met the excited soldiers.
The visit was emotional to the point of tears. The children joyfully embraced their “uncles from America” as if they had known them all their lives. Dalia, deeply moved, said to Esther: “I always dreamed of an aunt from America, and now I have one!” Esther, embracing her warmly, replied: “From now on, we are your family!”
These two families’ stories are just one of many wonderful tales of deep human connection, a bond beyond the sea and the power of love and unity—two families, two worlds, who became one big, loving family.
Through OurMishpacha, their connection continues to this day, stronger and more constant than ever. They exchange pictures, videos, and words of encouragement. Even now, they eagerly await the day they can meet again.
For more information, and to sign up so you can start your own journey, please visit ourmishpacha.org or email us with your phone number at [email protected].
