If you read the news, it is pretty clear that Iran is no friend of Israel. Given the chance, they would destroy Israel in a heartbeat. The only things they give Israel voluntarily, are stealth computer viruses, proxy terrorists, and regional mayhem. So, it’s hard to imagine Iran sending anything good our way. And yet, this year, Avraham Lavi made the extraordinary journey from his tyrannical homeland to the safety of Ashdod where he was welcomed with open arms.
This brave 15-year-old boy became one of AMIT’s newest 9th grade students. Avraham is not unusual in being a new AMIT student and a new immigrant to Israel. Each year, AMIT schools receive new students from France, Ethiopia, South America, Britain, Eastern Europe, and the US. All our students are special. But Avraham is a little more special, someone who had to cross dangerous territory and travel a great, emotional distance to reach his destination. Welcoming Avraham into our community enriches us all and serves as a reminder of why we support and work for AMIT.
When I see Avraham celebrate Chanukah with his new AMIT friends, I can’t help but think that’s how the world is changed…small steps…big smiles…extraordinary courage.
