This year, the students from Tiferet in Bet Shemesh celebrated Tu B’shevat, the new year of the trees, with our soldiers. Everyone had a fantastic experience and left with a new appreciation and understanding of this holiday. The young women arrived at the army base on Har Gilo early to set up the dining room and make it festive looking for the soldiers. Rabbi Eli Mayer from Tiferet led a special seder and taught everyone present about the direct connection between this holiday and the concept of Hakarat Hatov, expressing gratitude for the good that is done for you.
The seminary bought special neckwarmers for the soldiers. The students distributed them to the soldiers while expressing gratitude for the sacrifices these soldiers are making on behalf of the Jewish people. The army provided dried fruit for the holiday and the soldiers were happy to share it with the students. It was a wonderful and moving experience for everyone who was involved.