Tu BiShvat: Grow and Inspire
Participants of the "Breathe and Inspire" project joined the "To be ECO" initiative through creativity and shared activities
The celebration of Tu BiShvat became an opportunity for participants of the "Breathe and Inspire" project and the "To be ECO" initiative not only to learn about traditions but also to reflect on nature, responsibility, personal growth, and caring for the world around them.
For the youngest participants, the session turned into a true journey into the world of creativity and environmental awareness. The children listened to the PJ Library book "How Sadie Celebrated Tu BiShvat in the Snow," which helped them understand that this holiday is not only about trees but also about human responsibility for all living things around us.
Inspired by the story, the children moved on to the practical part of the activity. They planted onions with genuine enthusiasm and curiosity. Using felt, they created funny characters - boys and girls - and attached eyes and smiles to the onions, bringing them to life. In this way, an ordinary plant transformed into a little friend they wanted to care for.
The meeting concluded with decorating tree-shaped cookies. Hot chocolate, colorful candied fruits, and the atmosphere of shared creativity added even more warmth and festive spirit to the activity.
Older participants in the "Breathe and Inspire" project explored the meaning of Tu BiShvat from a different perspective. Together, they reflected on the theme: "Is a person like a tree in the field?" Teenagers discussed roots as a symbol of support and connection to family and traditions, the trunk as a person's life journey, and the crown as a representation of dreams, actions, and the future.
During the discussion, participants came to the conclusion that, just like a tree, a person needs care, support, knowledge, and love in order to grow. Most importantly, everyone is responsible not only for their own development but also for the world around them. After all, a person's true "fruits" are good deeds, supporting others, and the ability to inspire.
These gatherings once again demonstrated that caring for nature, the desire to learn new things, and being part of a shared cause have no age limits. It is through such simple yet meaningful actions that environmental awareness, mutual support, and a sense of community unity are born.