The Holocaust is a difficult subject to tackle in depth, particularly at lower grade levels. It has been said that the letter shin is pronounced shhh and reminds us to be silent. The alef is a silent letter and makes no sound at all. In spite of continual persecution, Jews have never abandoned hope for the future.
Optimism seems to be an indelible part of the Jewish psyche.
Although there may have been ample reason for abandoning hope at times, Jews have steadfastly refused to do so, believing that the future will bring better days and that one day the Messiah or the Messianic Age will arrive. Judaism is a family-centered religion. The Shoah caused the tragic destruction of millions of Jewish families. Judaism affirms life. The Shoah destroyed life.