Let’s Connect Summer Connections began with an enjoyable and creative ceramic paint night at the JCC, led by Paula Flax Siskind.The energy in the room was warm and lively from the moment women arrived. Participants came with excitement, and the tables quickly filled with conversation, laughter, creativity, and connection.

There was a steady buzz throughout the evening as women painted, shared ideas, and enjoyed spending time together.Each participant painted her own tile trivet, and the variety of styles and techniques was beautiful to see. Every piece had its own personality, reflecting the creativity and individual style of the woman who created it. The evening gave everyone a chance to relax, create something by hand, and connect with others in a welcoming setting.

The group was also privileged to hear a meaningful dvar Torah from Esther Badian, who spoke about the gift of creativity and the deeper purpose of artistic talent. She explained that the wisdom of art is not really in a person’s hands, but in the heart. The hands simply express what is already inside.She shared that artists often see the world differently, noticing colors, forms, and beauty that others may not see. The Torah teaches that beauty should be used to reveal holiness and bring people closer to noble values. Artistic talent can bring joy, educate, inspire, and add holiness to the world.Esther connected this idea to Betzalel and Oholiav, who did not approach the building of the Mishkan as a hobby, but as a sacred mission. When a person uses talent in that way, every brushstroke can become a way of bringing holiness into the world.

She then shared the story of Itzhak Perlman, the great violinist who had polio as a child and used crutches. Through perseverance, he became an extraordinary musician. During one performance, a string on his violin snapped. Instead of stopping, he continued playing with only three strings and created breathtaking music.The message was clear: sometimes a person has to create music with three strings, not four.

Not everyone receives the same talents, and not everyone faces the same challenges. Hashem gives each person unique tools for her mission. The question is not how much talent a person was given, but what she does with the talent she received.The dvar Torah connected beautifully to the evening, as each woman used her own hands, style, and creativity to make something personal and meaningful.

A special thank you goes to the staff at the JCC, including Arona Gans and Sara, who were incredibly helpful in guiding participants and helping each woman choose and paint her piece.With delicious refreshments, warm conversation, and a relaxed, upbeat atmosphere, the evening felt creative, meaningful, and genuinely connected. Thank you to everyone who came out and helped make the night so special.