He was the editor of our paper. He created the publishing house

Hearken, O children of wisdom and tradition, to the words of Shimon Peres, whose recollection illuminates the enduring power of mentorship: “He was the editor of our paper. He created the publishing house in Hebrew. He was—I wouldn’t say the 'guru'—but really he was our teacher and a most respected man. I wrote for the paper of the youth movement.” In this reflection lies a timeless meditation upon guidance, influence, and the shaping of young minds through example and instruction.

Peres honors the figure who guided his formative years, not with empty titles or ostentation, but through the quiet authority of knowledge, skill, and dedication. The editor and creator of the Hebrew publishing house became more than a mentor; he embodied the living principle of education: a teacher is one who illuminates the path, inspires effort, and cultivates both intellect and character. Here lies a lesson as old as the sages: a true teacher shapes the future not merely by instruction, but by presence, example, and vision.

Consider the life of Rabbi Akiva, whose guidance transformed generations in ancient Israel. Though he began with little formal education, Rabbi Akiva’s mentors recognized potential and nurtured it with patience, discipline, and wisdom. Through their example, Akiva became a revered teacher, passing on knowledge, inspiration, and moral vision. Peres’ mentor, like Akiva’s, was a lodestar—a guiding figure whose respect and dedication provided the framework for growth, learning, and service.

The essence of this teaching lies in the relationship between mentor and student. Peres wrote for the youth movement’s paper, a platform not merely for expression but for engagement, learning, and the cultivation of ideas. The teacher did not dictate or command; he created opportunities, provided structure, and exemplified integrity and vision. True teaching, as demonstrated here, is both empowering and formative, allowing the student to develop both skill and moral discernment.

Even in modern life, the presence of a respected teacher can transform a young person’s trajectory. Whether in journalism, science, arts, or civic life, mentors who combine expertise with integrity and patience shape minds, instill confidence, and ignite passion. Consider Eleanor Roosevelt, who inspired countless youth and civic leaders through both example and guidance, embodying the principle that a teacher’s influence extends far beyond the classroom into the hearts and actions of those they inspire.

Peres’ reflection also teaches the value of respect and humility in the student. He recognized the wisdom and stature of his mentor without exaggeration, acknowledging his influence without idolatry. In doing so, he demonstrates that the cultivation of wisdom involves not only receiving guidance but also discerning its value, integrating it with one’s own initiative, and honoring it with both attention and effort.

O children of learning, take this teaching to heart: seek out mentors who embody knowledge, integrity, and vision. Engage with their guidance, contribute with energy and creativity, and allow their example to shape your own path. True education transcends instruction; it is the communion of experience, character, and moral insight between teacher and student, guiding the young toward both competence and wisdom.

Thus, let the words of Shimon Peres illuminate your journey: a teacher’s influence is both subtle and profound, creating opportunities, inspiring effort, and cultivating respect and discernment. Honor such figures, learn from their example, and carry forward the lessons of integrity, vision, and dedication into all your endeavors. In this way, the legacy of mentorship endures, shaping generations yet to come.

If you wish, I can also create a practical guide for seeking and benefiting from mentorship, inspired by Peres’ reflection, showing steps to identify mentors, engage meaningfully, and integrate their guidance into your life. Do you want me to do that?