Embracing Life From Loss: Israel Goldberg's Journey

"Avia set out for the yeshiva, stopping along the way to refuel," Israel Goldberg begins, describing the day his beloved son, may his memory be a blessing, was lost in a tragic road accident. "At the gas station, a woman was stranded with her car, and Avia insisted they help her before leaving. But as Avia and his friend rejoined the road, a deep crack caused their car to overturn. His friend emerged unscathed, but my precious Avia was killed instantly." The news of his son's death came not through words, but a stark reality. "We were told Avia had been injured, so my wife and I rushed to the hospital. Arriving there, the hesitance of the staff spoke volumes. Unable to wait any longer, my wife and I discovered Avia... and our world shifted in that instant." "In that moment, one line from Psalms, 'He will not let your foot slip,' held me upright as my legs faltered under the news. I prayed to Hashem: 'You took Avia, and thus it is. I ask only for strength for my family, to carry on his legacy through good deeds and love.'" Choosing life over despair, the Goldbergs wasted no time. With Avia's spirit guiding them, they embraced his traits of boundless generosity and helpfulness. Israel recalls how Avia assisted anyone in need, often receiving calls from strangers looking for advice on everything from buying cars to choosing electronics—knowledge Avia selflessly shared, even with those he had never met. "Avia was quiet yet assertive, his presence unassuming," Israel reminisces affectionately, noting his son's love for Torah study and contributions to the Land of Israel. Upon accepting Avia's passing, Israel and Ronit committed to channeling their grief into projects reflecting his spirit, establishing 'Avia's Fund'. This initiative champions love for Israel, education, and altruism, continuing Avia's commitment to good causes. Guiding visitors on tours of the neglected Mount of Olives, Israel restores reverence for this resting place of honored souls, a mission kindled by Avia's burial there. Discovering this historical site's neglect prompted action; renting the Seven Arches Hotel at the summit, Israel now hosts Shabbat retreats for soldiers and mourning families, providing them with a cosher experience of warmth and relaxation. In memory of Avia, they've also established 'Avia's Home', a boutique clothing store where large families can renew their wardrobes affordably. Leftover stock from major brands like Zara is donated, alongside clothes from individuals, maintained by volunteers and teenagers with special needs. The store's nominal prices benefit the volunteers, funding enjoyable events for them throughout the year. "The projects are our way to keep Avia's spirit vibrant," Israel explains. While their initiative was swift after the shiva period, Israel emphasizes that reacting to loss this way isn't universal. "These endeavors reflect how our family found renewal through shared purpose. Each family member contributes in unique ways, uniting us in Avia's memory." For those engulfed in mourning, Israel's heart aches to draw them back to life. Critically, Goldbergs' newest initiative, 'Fill the Void', invites people to dedicate good deeds for fallen IDF heroes, offering a connection and peace to grieving families. “It shows their hero continues to live through acts of kindness,” Israel says, uniting nation and family under a shared, ongoing legacy. Embodying resilience and hope, the Goldbergs' journey is a testament to faith's power in traversing profound loss, affirming, "Without faith, enduring such loss would be insurmountable.""