Aristotle said it best, “Those who know, do. Those that understand, teach.” Sydney Perry and Ira Wise, with much learning to share and wisdom to impart, have been leading classes on Jewish learning at Tower One/Tower East, and it has been an enriching experience for both teacher and students alike.
For many years, Perry has been an icon in New Haven. She was the executive director of the Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven for many years. She feels it is an honor for her to teach the Towers’ “adult learners,” as she describes them, because “Intellectual stimulation is so important [for Towers’ residents] to the extent that it adds meaning and relevancy to their personal lives.”
She went on to say more about her teaching at Tower One/Tower East: “The Talmud says that ‘Much have I learned from my teachers; more from my colleagues than from my teachers; and from my students, most of all.’ I have long found this saying to be true.” She also feels that the students “bring their whole selves to the classes.” She sees the intelligence, great knowledge and terrific memories everyone brings, as well as always keeping a sense of humor.
Wise, director of education at Congregation B’nai Israel in Bridgeport, has been involved in educating children for many years. However, he does say that “Teaching Jewish adults is one of the two things I love to do most.” He went on to explain how gratifying teaching the deeper Jewish learning class is because, “It gives me a chance to give back since my parents became [Towers] residents last summer.”
He said that after studying Jewish philosophers and rabbis of the Talmud, he wanted to try something different. “This year we have begun to explore the idea of Israel. We are looking at the land, the people and the nation. The participants will have an opportunity to explore their own feelings and connections, as well as to have a chance to think deeply about the problems facing Israel and its neighbors today.”
For more information on how your loved one can enjoy the many life enriching programs and activities The Towers has to offer or to schedule a tour, please contact Rebecca at (203) 772-1816, ext. 250, rebecca@towerone.org.
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