Note from the Songwriter:
Things are all around us! They fill our pockets, our rooms, and our lives. And even though it may not be logical, some things are more valuable than others. The sweater your grandmother knit for you is going to feel more important than the one you bought off the rack. Context infuses everyday “things” with importance. Kids know this instinctively: teddy bears, souvenirs, nightlights, lucky socks… some of their things are very special! Jewish Things is meant to get kids (and everyone!) to think about these things, and what exactly makes them special. Is it because someone you love gave it to you? Does it tie to a specific place and time that you remember when you use the thing? Does it help you do something, or make you feel great? The same questions can be asked about Jewish ritual objects! Use the song as a catalyst to talk about these things. By the way, the song doesn’t even mention any Jewish things; that’s for you to fill in!
Lyrics:
When you look around your room
What do you see?
A stack of books, a comfy bed,
A toy or even three!
But maybe there’s a special thing
you like above the rest.
It makes you brave, it helps you grow,
It helps you be your best!
Chorus:
We all have things
special things
helping us with what each day brings
we have things
special things
and some of those things are Jewish things
some of those things are Jewish things
Maybe you have a teddy bear
to help you fall asleep
Maybe you have a nightlight
to help you have good dreams!
These things can give us comfort,
Help us feel safe and sound
Reminding us of those we love
when they’re not around
Chorus
bridge:
Your favorite doll, your favorite ball
they help make you feel ten feet tall
(Maybe) your lucky shirt, your lucky chair
A lucky comb to brush your hair!
The baseball signed by your favorite player
You caught at the winning game
The blanket that your mommy gave you
When you got your name
we all have things that help us
go through the world each day
and we have some things that help us
in a Jewish way!
Chorus