Another women’s class took place at the “Menorah Community” youth project of the Dnipro Jewish Community, which is actively developing through the efforts of the Zislin family. The session was dedicated to an important and profound theme – understanding true pride, Jewish identity, and inner dignity.
The speaker for the gathering was Osnat Lieberman, who invited the participants to reflect together on how true pride has nothing to do with arrogance or a desire to elevate oneself above others, but rather is connected to a clear awareness of one’s own value, one’s roots, and the mission that the Almighty entrusts to every Jew.
Special attention was given to the question of why it is so important not to hide one’s Jewish identity but, on the contrary, to carry it with dignity in everyday life. The participants spoke about where a person draws inner strength to confidently say “I am proud of who I am,” not to be ashamed of their traditions, and to feel a true connection to their people and their spiritual heritage.
During the lesson, the participants discussed how respect for one’s roots, understanding one’s own spiritual value, and faithfulness to one’s mission help a person maintain inner strength, not dissolve into the surrounding world, and find the strength to live in accordance with their convictions and values.
“It was very important for the girls to talk about pride not as a manifestation of superiority but as a deep and honest understanding of their Jewish identity, their roots, and their mission,” says Esti Zislin, co-director of the project. “Such gatherings help to feel inner dignity, strengthen one’s connection to Jewish tradition, and understand that openly speaking about who you are is also part of the spiritual strength we receive thanks to the united and cohesive Dnipro Jewish Community under the leadership of Chief Rabbi Shmuel Kaminezki.”
