לגעת באור שלהם 31- סגן נתנאל מנחם איתן הי''ד - "להתנדב מכל הלב''

Summary

This heartfelt tribute honors Nataniel, a young man whose life was defined by kindness, dedication, and selflessness. From his childhood in Jerusalem to his role as a volunteer and soldier, Nataniel inspired those around him with his unwavering commitment to helping others. Whether working with children battling cancer, serving in elite military units, or giving his life to save others, his acts of service left a lasting impact. His legacy lives on through his courage, leadership, and the love he shared with his family and friends.

Takeaways

• 😀 Nataniel, known as Nati, was a selfless and devoted volunteer in various charitable organizations, especially those focused on children with cancer.
• 😀 Nati's ability to uplift and inspire others, especially introverted or struggling individuals, made him a cherished figure in his community.
• 😀 He was praised for his genuine and meaningful compliments, which had a lasting impact on the self-esteem of those he interacted with.
• 😀 Nati was deeply involved in community service, including volunteering at hospitals, providing support to families in need, and donating blood to help cancer patients.
• 😀 His commitment to kindness was exemplified by his willingness to help people in the most challenging circumstances, including during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• 😀 Nati's dedication to personal growth and self-improvement was evident in his reflective journal, where he noted daily practices to better himself.
• 😀 His compassion extended beyond his community work; Nati also trained to be a combat soldier and aspired to serve in elite rescue units to save lives in crisis situations.
• 😀 Throughout his military service, Nati's leadership and courage were recognized by his peers and superiors, earning him respect and admiration.
• 😀 In his final moments, Nati remained focused on helping others, even after being fatally injured during military operations, and ultimately saved lives by donating his organs.
• 😀 Nati's legacy is remembered not only for his courage and selflessness but also for his deep connection to his faith and the city of Jerusalem, which he viewed as a symbol of inner beauty and spiritual depth.

Q & A

What was the early life and background of Netanel?

Netanel grew up in Jerusalem in the Arnob neighborhood. He attended Chabad institutions during his childhood and later studied in yeshiva. As a teenager, he was actively involved in volunteering, including working as a guide in the Ezra youth movement and volunteering in the Zichron Menachem organization, which supports children with cancer.

What qualities made Netanel stand out as a volunteer?

Netanel was known for his deep humility, kindness, and ability to make others feel special. He was praised for offering meaningful compliments that made children feel valued. His dedication to helping those in need, such as working with children with cancer, was recognized as extraordinary.

How did Netanel impact the lives of children in Zichron Menachem?

Netanel had a transformative effect on the children he worked with in Zichron Menachem. He was especially praised for engaging children who were introverted or lacked energy, turning them into 'stars of the camp.' His encouragement and thoughtful compliments helped boost their self-confidence.

What was Netanel's attitude toward volunteering?

Netanel believed that the true test of a volunteer’s character was in their willingness to help in everyday situations, even when no one was watching. He emphasized the importance of small acts of service, such as helping at home, and saw this as the essence of true volunteerism.

How did Netanel apply the teachings of the 'Mesilat Yesharim' in his life?

Netanel took the teachings of 'Mesilat Yesharim' seriously, not just as a book of study, but as a guide for personal growth. He kept a journal where he reflected on his daily actions and sought to improve himself, constantly striving to align his behavior with the values in the book.

What was Netanel's aspiration regarding his military service?

Netanel aspired to join a prestigious combat unit in the IDF, specifically the elite 669 Search and Rescue Unit. He wrote in his journal about his dedication to saving lives and protecting others, reflecting his deep sense of duty and commitment to helping those in need.

What personal sacrifices did Netanel make during his service in the IDF?

Netanel demonstrated immense selflessness during his service, particularly when he risked his life to rescue injured comrades during combat. Despite facing dangerous situations, he was committed to ensuring the safety of others, even at the cost of his own life.

How did Netanel's actions during the October 7th attack reflect his character?

During the October 7th attack, Netanel was in the midst of a officers' course. After the attack began, he immediately joined his unit to help rescue injured people. He showed remarkable courage and dedication to saving lives, which was in line with his core belief that saving a life is the highest value.

What was Netanel's relationship with his friend Rinan, and how did it reflect his values?

Netanel developed a strong bond with Rinan, a Druze soldier in his unit. Despite coming from different backgrounds and cultures, their friendship was based on mutual respect, shared values of volunteerism, and a deep sense of love for humanity. Rinan described Netanel as a person who embodied the spirit of giving and leadership.

What impact did Netanel's death have on those who knew him?

Netanel's death left a profound impact on his friends, family, and comrades. His legacy as a leader, volunteer, and selfless individual who cared deeply for others continues to inspire those who knew him. His family chose to donate his organs, saving the lives of three people, which exemplified his commitment to helping others, even in death.

How did Netanel's view of Jerusalem reflect his personality and values?

Netanel saw Jerusalem as a symbol of inner beauty and strength. He wrote in his journal that the city's true beauty lay in its inner essence, not in outward appearances. This reflects his overall worldview, where he emphasized the importance of inner qualities and values over external attributes.