At the root of most misunderstanding and division between people is lack of healthy communication. When we can speak openly and honestly, we are able to share our thoughts and feelings so that others can connect with us. Likewise, by doing so we encourage others to share as well. Rumari Zarez, 11, and his 4th grade classmates, are wise beyond their years and show us the transformation that can take place when we allow ourselves to be vulnerable and speak our truth. Rumari asked to speak to his class, and in doing so, he not only educated them about his autism but was able to receive support and friendship in return. The Hebrew word for the mouth is “peh” which is numerically equivalent to the words for “love” (ahava) and “kindness” (chesed). This teaches us that when we speak, it is to share love and kindness and to bring out the love and kindness in others. This little boy and his classmates beautifully demonstrate this.
(Cover image photo credit: Lisa Rachel Moe. Picture of Rumari Zarez with his teacher, Lisa Rachel Moe, who also filmed the video.)
