David Pressman

My name is David Pressman, 23 years old, married, and a father of two.

In my daily life, I am a yeshiva student, blessed to spend most of my day immersed in Torah study.

For several years now, in my spare time, I have been designing and programming fonts. I treated it as a hobby—something I deeply enjoyed, but never assigned great significance to.

When I came across the “Ot Hayim” project, I was struck by the power of this creative endeavor to heal broken hearts and memorialize lives that once were. I was amazed by the light it brings to grieving families and the community, and how something as seemingly casual as handwriting can become a monument.

I couldn’t remain indifferent. I knew it would take time, effort, and dedication, sometimes involving frustration and a sense of helplessness. But the opportunity that had come my way wouldn’t let me go. Finally, I had something profound to do with this hobby of mine. I had to.

The first font I created for the initiative was based on the handwriting of Lior Siminovich.

I read about Lior—who he was, and who he aspired to be. Some of the handwriting samples I received reflected not only his present self but also his hopes and dreams for the future: “The values I am guided by in life are: not to do bad deeds… to help others… to take everything lightly… not to give up even when it’s hard…”

As I designed each letter, I felt like I was touching the essence of his soul. I repeatedly read his writings, envisioning his emotions, loves, hopes, and prayers.

I am profoundly grateful for the privilege that has been granted to me.