This week, we begin the Book of Numbers with Parashat Bamidbar. We read about how Am Yisrael journeyed from Egypt toward the Promised Land. You might expect that the first thing God instructs Moses to do is give a pep talk to inspire the people—but instead, God asks him to conduct a census.

Why a census? It’s not just about counting people; it’s about recognizing each individual’s place in the community and understanding what each person can contribute. This shows us something powerful: the whole is always greater than the sum of its parts. Am Yisrael’s strength comes not just from individual efforts, but from the way we come together to stand for what we believe in.

Lately, we’ve had to do that more than ever. I once heard that there are as many ways to be Jewish as there are Jews alive. And yet, despite all the differences, we’re still deeply connected—not just through Jewish geography, but through our shared history, ancestors, and purpose.

That said, being part of a people doesn’t mean you can’t make a difference as an individual. The census teaches us that each person matters. What are you good at? That might be an easy or a hard question, but I promise—there is something only you can bring to the table.

Even if you haven’t realized it, you’ve already been making a difference—whether by helping build BBYO, serving on board, speaking up against antisemitism, or continuing the legacy you were given. As many seniors prepare to graduate, ask yourself: What legacy have they left you, and what legacy do you want to leave behind? That legacy is now in your hands. It may seem like a big task, but it brings deep meaning and fulfillment.

Another lesson Bamidbar teaches us is that a community needs leaders. Moses didn’t lead alone—he had Aaron, Miriam, the Levites, and many others. So, what part do you want to play in leading this movement?

Parashat Bamidbar reminds us of the opportunities we have every single day to support and uplift the Jewish people. You don’t need a census to recognize your value. Understand your strengths, embrace them, and use them to leave a legacy you’re proud of. Our community—whether it’s your chapter, your region, BBYO as a whole, or the global Jewish community—depends on the individuals who make it up.

It doesn’t survive by chance. It survives because of the choices each of us makes, week after week. What choices are you making? Make them ones that will leave a mark you’ll be proud of.

Shabbat Shalom,
Gal Rubel, BBYO Agrentina