Middle Schoolers Reflect on Memorial Day, Hakarat Hatov, and Jewish Leadership with a Marine Corps Veteran

Middle Schoolers had a powerful morning full of programming for Memorial Day and Shavuot! They were treated to a talk by Ramaz parent Josh Goldberg, who is a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps. He talked about the importance of Memorial Day, including that when we sing the National Anthem, “Land of the free and home of the brave,” we have that freedom because of those who chose to fight for us. He added, “I swore an oath to defend this country so that we could be here today to listen to this speech.” He asked students to take a moment during Memorial Day to recognize that they have this holiday, and this freedom, “because of those brave warriors who decided to volunteer and join the military so you can have that time and freedom to enjoy yourself.”

Mr. Goldberg especially highlighted the connection between Judaism and his military service. “First and foremost, I’m Jewish,” he said proudly. He explained two core Jewish values that are embodied in Memorial Day: hakarat hatov (gratitude) and leadership. Hakarat hatov is embedded in Judaism, such as starting each day with saying Modeh Ani to thank Hashem for returning our soul. The gratitude that the country shows on Memorial Day is one example of how non-Jews follow the Jewish example. Overall, Mr. Goldberg emphasized that Jews are the leaders who show the rest of the world our faith, gratitude, and connection to Hashem. By leading and demonstrating these values, others see what it looks like and do the same.

Associate Head of School Rabbi Hagler bolstered Mr. Goldberg’s inspiring speech by connecting it to Shavuot, asking, “What does it mean when we say we were ‘chosen’ by Hashem? What are we chosen for?” He explained that being chosen is a responsibility. Every single nation can get the bracha through our example. Through seeing the example that Avraham and all Jewish people set, every single nation can fulfill their commandments, the Seven Laws of Noah, and get Hashem’s bracha.