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In Loving Memory of Bracha Naomi Gittel Mandelbaum
written by her Ganenet
Naomi Gittel's name was truly fitting for her; she was both
pleasant and good. She brought so much meaning, content and
depth to her five years of life -- five short years filled
with wisdom, gratitude, honoring her parents, prayer and
Kiddush Hashem.
All this, and much more, we learned from Naomi Gittel. During
her short life, she gave us so many spiritual gifts. So many
people -- men, women and children -- reached heights of
tefila and chessed in her merit. Although so
very young, she accepted her suffering with amazing maturity,
without complaint, never taking advantage of her
condition.
At night in the hospital, when her lips were dry with thirst,
this little girl called the nurse herself to ask for water,
rather than wake her father. She then said the brocha
slowly and clearly, so that the nurse could answer
Amen.
Even during her last days, Naomi Gittel was eager to hear
more and more psukim, midroshim and stories about the
parshas hashovua. She was always cheerful, smiling and
thankful. She grew through her suffering, becoming ever more
precious to her parents, who focused on the light even during
this dark time and they, too, radiated strength,
encouragement and good cheer. Their limitless faith and love
were a true Kiddush Hashem.
Dear Naomi Gittel, only Hashem knows how much I received
from you and from your parents. Only He knows how grateful I
am for the special merit of having been your teacher.
May you rest in peace.
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