Wednesday, November 13, 2024
Susie was one of those rare, special teachers. I met her when she was teaching Adult Hebrew for Beginners at Central Synagogue (Rockville Centre, NY). It was amazing how she made each of us feel that it was possible to understand a language we could barely recognize. Our group worked hard to grasp the shapes and sounds of the Hebrew letters, but we discovered in Susie a wonderful teacher for so much more --- how to understand the Jewish holidays, how to celebrate each festival, and how to come together when faced with challenges. We shared family stories, laughed together, and cherished new connections.
I will be eternally grateful to Susie for encouraging me to explore Judaism beyond this class. More than anyone, Susie made me feel that it was possible to jump in and swim. Susie helped to show the way for me and for many others who felt that we were "outsiders." We never felt that way again. We were so lucky to have had her as a teacher. May her memory be as a blessing to everyone whose lives she has touched.