As some of you may know, my Bubby and Zayda helped raise me. My father left the picture when I was 7 years old and my grandparents stepped in to help with me and my two sisters for a few years. For a while, my sisters and I even called my bubby “Mom”, we used the same name my mom called her because it made sense, she was ‘Our Mom’.

I became so close with my “grand” parents that even after my mom moved us to New York and got remarried, I went back every summer to stay with them.

My Bubby and Zayda had the most amazing relationship and love for each other. They taught me how to respect each and every human being, to be patient, kind and loving and to face adversity with a smile and a prayer.

The last memory I have of bubby is visiting her in the nursing home, her face pale, eyes shut and non-responsive – she was no longer talking. I excitedly said “Bubby, I have something to show you!” – Yonah had just been born and I was desperate to surprise her with pictures. She didn’t open her eyes, I tried again, “Bubby, please open your eyes!”, again nothing. This time I gave away the secret, I said “Bubby please, I have pictures of your new great-grandson, we had a boy!”.

Her eyes remained shut, but her entire face became flush, and she had the brightest, warmest smile on her face. She knew, and that’s all I needed.

Sometimes you don’t have to see to know.

This reminds me of the paroches for two reasons. First, it covers the torah like eyelids cover the eyes. To separate and protect, yet to also open and reveal the light. Second, even when its covered as long as you feel the warmth emanating, you just know.

Please help me reach my goal to dedicate the Paroches in their honor.