As has been our family tradition since we moved to this community, we brought our daughter Naama from Montreal for her annual “vacation,” as she calls it, to celebrate the Simchat Torah chag with us.
In our family we are blessed with children who are totally committed to each other as siblings.
How do we ever thank Akiva, who on Motzei Shabbat drove to Montreal to pick Naama up, arriving at 2:30 a.m. and leaving Montreal at 8:30 a.m. to return in time for Yom Tov?
All of Highgate Terrace is accustomed to the “grande ramp” constructed in front of the Hagler home in preparation for Naama’s arrival. When she arrived, everyone came running out to say hello. Sister, brother (Chaim), nephews, neighbors (the Skocyzlas family)—all welcomed Naama back.
As parents we feel daily gratitude for our children and who they have chosen to be their life partners (without resumes). Chavie and Chaim have become Naama’s surrogate parents. There is nothing that they won’t do for her. As I write this, Chavie is on her way back to Montreal with her son Ari to deliver Naama to her group home. They will immediately turn back for the return trip. Without my knowledge Chavie sent emails to what seemed like the entire world to come and visit Naama during her stay in Bergenfield. And did they come!!! Each afternoon the “princess” Miss Naama entertained a room full of people sitting around visiting with her. Some remembered her from years ago at HASC, others knew her from Montreal and others were anxious to just do what was right. A very special dog, whose name escapes me, friendly and sweet, even came to visit. She was thrilled. A special friend who she met on her last visit, a very young man whose name is Dovid Zlotnick, visited with his mother several times. He knew exactly how to interact with Naama on her Bliss board and wants to know if she can visit more often!
To everyone who made the effort we want to thank you all for making Naama feel special. From our hearts we are overwhelmed by your kindness and sensitivity. There is great truth in the words “little things mean a lot.”
By Rabbi Mordechai and Nina Glick
