Grandmother's Empty Calendar Square Symbolizes Hope for Grandchild

As the Jewish New Year approaches, a grandmother in Modi'in Illit meticulously prepares holiday treats, including her signature rice and yeast pastries, for her family. Her daughter, Chani, is celebrating her firstborn's wedding and expecting a child, and the grandmother wants to provide familiar food to support her.

Each year, her children surprise her with a new calendar, filling its squares with family birthdays, anniversaries, and the recent additions of three great-grandchildren. While she cherishes these updates, the grandmother intentionally leaves one square blank each month. These empty spaces represent her ongoing hope for her eldest granddaughter, Laiki, who has been waiting for a child for over thirty years.

During Rosh Hashanah prayers, as the congregation calls out "Aya" (Where is he/she?), the grandmother silently echoes the plea, directing her prayer towards the empty square on her calendar. This ritual is dedicated to Laiki and her husband, Robbie, and the child they long to have. The grandmother believes a miracle will happen and is confident that the empty square will eventually be filled.

The article highlights that this grandmother's empty square is not unique; many families share this longing for a child. The organization "Bnei Olam" is seeking donations to help couples like Laiki and Robbie access fertility treatments, with the hope that next year's calendars will no longer have empty spaces.