This week, I had the incredible opportunity to travel to Poland with Muss, exploring Jewish history and connecting with my roots in a way I never had before. While much of the trip was emotional and difficult, one of the most meaningful experiences was spending Shabbat in Kraków. 

On Friday night, we welcomed Shabbat at the Temple Synagogue, a breathtakingly beautiful shul that once served the thriving Jewish community of Kraków. As we sang Kabbalat Shabbat together, I couldn’t help but think about the generations of Jews who had prayed in that very place. The voices of my friends and the melodies of our prayers filled the synagogue, bringing life back to a space that had seen so much loss. 

After services, we shared a Shabbat dinner filled with singing, laughter, and a deep sense of unity. Sitting in a city where Jewish life was nearly destroyed, we created a space of joy and tradition—proving that Am Yisrael Chai, the Jewish people live on. 

This Shabbat reminded me of the strength of our people and the importance of carrying on our traditions, no matter where we are. It was a powerful and emotional way to conclude a week of learning, remembrance, and connection. 

Neta is 17 years old and is a student at Haddonfield Memorial High School in New Jersey. Neta moved to the U.S. from Hong Kong in 2023.