In conjunction with Yavneh Academy’s monthly theme, V’ahavta Lerayacha Kamocha, Yavneh Academy middle school students were honored to host Ari Abramowitz, a lone soldier in the Israeli Defense Forces. He shared one of the stories from his experience in the IDF that highlighted this theme for the students. As his army group was training in the mountains, they were caught in a terrible storm. All of their possessions were destroyed and they needed to leave to find a safer shelter. Because of a mudslide, no one could come pick them up- they were on their own. In that moment, the soldiers decided to walk back to their army base. Step by step, they made their way closer home. They helped each other through thick and thin and made sure everyone was taken care of. This story showed how important relationships with each other truly are. There is always someone who needs helping, and one should race at any opportunity to help. Yavneh’s theme reflects a major life lesson that everyone should take in. The students are excited to be collecting tzedakah for lone soldiers, such a worthwhile and meaningful cause.