MIRA FURTH FOUND FULFILLMENT BY CHANNELING HER SKILLS TO TEACH YOUNGSTERS ABOUT ART… AND LIFE
By ALAN ROSENBAUM
What it is about
Mira Furth, an 80-year-old resident of Jerusalem’s Bayit Balev retirement residence, has discovered profound fulfillment through her involvement in arts and crafts projects with local kindergarten children. She integrates her past life experiences with new endeavors that bridge the generation gap, fostering a nurturing environment for young and old alike.
Why it matters
Furth’s journey is a heartening reminder of the resilience and creativity inherent in the Israeli spirit. Her story sheds light on the importance of intergenerational interaction and the unique contributions that senior citizens can make within their communities. It’s also a testament to how Israel places high value on education and communal support across all age groups.
Context and background
Mira Furth was born in Jerusalem and served in the IDF in the early 1960s. She lived in Kibbutz Mahanayim for a decade and worked in the State Revenue Department’s computing unit before retiring in 2004. Post-retirement, she discovered an affinity for patchwork and quilting, a craft that has enabled her to give back to her community in meaningful ways.
Details
Mira’s involvement with the local kindergartens began in 2016 when she moved to the Bayit Balev retirement residence in Jerusalem. Initially hesitant, Furth was gradually drawn into kindergarten activities, thanks to the insistence of a dedicated social worker. A joint trip to the Ein Hemed nature reserve sealed her bond with the children.
Some of her notable contributions include designing banners for the kindergarten’s graduation ceremonies, making holiday-themed crafts, and creating personalized art projects. Her initiative to craft shoulder bags with Stars of David decorated with flowers for children amidst the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict exemplifies her resilient spirit.
Teaching and legacy
Furth visits the kindergarten weekly to spearhead creative projects, bolstering artistic expression, fostering connections and providing emotional stability amidst turbulent times. Through her patient guidance, Furth instills a sense of self-worth and artistic appreciation among the youngsters.
Both her apartment in her retirement home and the visible results in the kindergartens are testaments to the transformative power of her contributions. She continues to work on both long-standing and new projects, thereby reinforcing the communal bond and cultural heritage of Jerusalem.
Impact
Mira Furth’s story reflects the vitality of communal involvement in Israeli society, highlighting the nation’s collective resolve and compassion. By intertwining older and younger generations, Furth helps perpetuate a legacy of creativity, empathy, and resilience, crucial for Israel’s future prosperity and defense.
In Summary
With her artistic talents and warm heart, Mira Furth has managed to infuse youthful vigor into her autumn years, enriching not just her life but also profoundly touching the lives of many children. Through her contributions, she embodies the deeply ingrained value of mentorship and resilience prevalent in Israeli culture.