jazzrabbi

passing of an era, sort of

2012-02-09T16:15:00.003-05:00

Today we went to view the Learning Sphere projects at Vered's school. Learning Sphere is an opportunity for the elementary students to do research on (almost) any topic of interest, and create a display showing off their study, theories, and results. We've seen projects ranging from lemon-powered batteries and space travel to rocks & minerals and the effectiveness of different hair-styling products. This year, true to one of her passions, V presented about endangered species, including their habitats, challenges to survival, and what we can do to help protect such vulnerable creatures.
This was Vered's final year to participate. Between our two kids, we've now been involved in some 5 or 6 different Learning Sphere experiences (some families we know have had many, many more!). Though a sense of relief in bringing that last display board home, there's also a sense of bittersweet nostalgia as well (I did look through a bunch of photos of the kids at younger stages earlier today; feel free to cue the music to "Sunrise, Sunset" at any time). Many new opportunities and exciting episodes will open up for her (and us) as she continues toward middle school and beyond; yet I can't help thinking that now too we are witnessing, and undergoing, the end of yet another precious chapter in life, one that will never be repeated...
chazak chazak v'nitchazek.

Two awesome weeks in January

2012-01-19T17:11:00.004-05:00

The new year is certainly off to a magnificent start: beginning with our trip to L'taken - the social justice advocacy and lobbying program for teens conducted by the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism. I was once again fortunate to take our Confirmation class (6 10th graders) to DC for this amazing experience - learning about the issues of the day, how to address them as Jews, and the chance to lobby our concerns with the offices of our U.S. senators and representatives. One highlight was to share some introductory thoughts with our students - about the importance of Jewish involvement in the public sphere, the long-standing tradition of the Reform movement's efforts to push the agenda of social justice in American politics and society, and the historic celebration of the 50th anniversary of the founding of the RAC - while situated at JFK's grave in Arlington National Cemetery. We visited the MLK Memorial and the Holocaust Museum, held Havdalah at the Jefferson Memorial, and spent time at the Smithsonian museums...and most importantly joined together with 250+ peers from all over the country.

And yes, then there was the celebration of Bar Mitzvah for my son Benjamin. It was a great, no, fabulous occasion. Ben ("Little Jazz") participated beautifully in our Shabbat services - and read like a pro from the Torah...truly, he OWNED the bimah and the entire experience. Family and friends came from all over, and our congregation shined in showing off how a sacred community really comes together to enrich the lives of its members - especially the young ones - at such times. From the music Ben chose to the gathering of so many loved ones to the food and dancing to having our family together at our home - it was everything we wanted, and more than we expected.
Several months ago, my colleague Jonathan Stein stated that "Tikkun Olam (repairing the world) is still the coin of the realm for Reform Judaism." I agree wholeheartedly. If so, opportunities like L'taken and joyous B'nei Mitzvah are the mint that creates the currency. So thankful to be involved in such important work.

Resolutions 2012

2011-12-31T18:52:00.002-05:00

A few thoughts about "resolutions" for 2012:

Learn to use my new iPad more efficiently, productively;
Help keep the house a little cleaner (from all my junk);
Play more guitar - practice more too!;
Enjoy quiet moments;
Let go of frustrations (ha!);
Listen more (what?), chat less;
Live, love, laugh more fully!!!

How 'bout YOU?
Whatever comes your way - I hope that 2012 is filled with health, happiness, peace and much love!!!! Best wishes, always....

OCHO KANDELIKAS, pt. VIII: adding light, one day at a time

2011-12-27T19:23:00.004-05:00

HANUKKAH 2011/5772, eighth night: final thoughts on the last eve of the Festival
Hanukkah Radio has resonated through the house the entire Festival...my musical friends and heroes providing the soundtrack for Hanukkah...
And today is our 19th anniversary...guess there's no better way to spend time than the combination of Hanukkah, the kids, our anniversary, music, and (ever more) abundant food to round out the holiday...
Little Jazz and Sister Soul both shared that volunteering on Christmas at the Center for the Homeless was a highlight of Hanukkah - can't beat that as a gift from your children.
What's been YOUR favorite Hanukkah moment this year? I'd love to know...
As we approach the conclusion of this Festival, may the warm glow of the lights continue to burn brightly into the new year just ahead, inspiring us to bring blessings of compassion, kindness, justice and peace into our world....
CHAG URIM SAMEYACH...wishing you much love always....

OCHO KANDELIKAS, pt. VII: whatever suits you

2011-12-26T17:25:00.003-05:00

HANUKKAH 2011/5772, seventh night
(okay - with all these subsequent successive entries, I kinda feel like George Lucas!)
Listening to Radio Hanukkah on Sirius/XM all day...now making maftoul and shnitzel for dinner...
Less than three weeks from now we'll celebrate the milestone of Bar Mitzvah for Ben....it's more than kinda weird - as I don't think it's struck me yet...Little Jazz has been an exemplary "Bar Mitzvah candidate" - and I'm not just braggin'...he's enjoying the preparation, and has always exhibited a great love of expressing Jewish identity...I've had the honor of working with literally hundreds of B'nei Mitzvah kids and families, and I've NEVER seen anyone get *giddy* while chanting Torah or reading from the prayer book as Ben does....it's overwhelming, additionally being somewhat of a ratification of my entire life...
Today - DJS and I took Little Jazz out to fit for a suit for the big day (months ago, he had wanted just to wear a nice pair of pants, with a bright colorful shirt as I often do for Shabbat; eventually, he told his mother "I think I want a suit." "Why?" Deb responded, "to look like so-and-so?"...."No mom - for the ladies"...ugh, we're so done)....
Well, I guess this is also a milestone - our little Ben-man, getting suited up for the occasion accepting his responsibilities as a young adult in the community. I'm proud of him beyond belief, and grateful that he too has exceeded his parents' modest ability to shape him into the terrific man he will become...

OCHO KANDELIKAS, pt. VI: ner shel tzedakah

2011-12-25T19:53:00.002-05:00

HANUKKAH 2011/5772, sixth night

For several years, there has been an effort to recognize one night of Hanukkah as ner shel tzedakah (the light of righteousness), reminding us during our celebration that our real job as members of the human family is to strive for justice for all. For example, some families choose one eve on which, rather than exchanging gifts, to make a joint contribution to a worthy cause.
Today, our family had the wonderful opportunity to volunteer at the Center for the Homeless, along with our dear friends Mark, Susan, Ethan and Mayah Sandock. We helped clean in the kitchen, stock food in the storage pantry, and eventually to serve meals to guests, helping make sure their holiday was sweet and enjoyable.
While there, a reporter from one of the local stations came to do a story about volunteering on Christmas. As exciting as it was for a few of our kids to be included in the interviewing - it was fully more meaningful to hear them share thoughts about why they were there: "it makes me happy to be able to help others celebrate their holiday;" "I recognize how fortunate I am, and I can give back by helping others who might not have what I do;" "I'm very luck to have the life I have, and I can share with the less fortunate." As a parent, as a rabbi, overhearing these comments is a great gift for this sixth night of the Festival.
(And be sure - the requisite Chinese food was partaken afterward :)
Thanks to the Sandocks for sharing such a lovely day with us!

OCHO KANDELIKAS, pt. V: relaxin' on Saturday eve

2011-12-24T16:58:00.002-05:00

HANUKKAH 2011/5772, fifth night
Relaxing on a Saturday evening
We had lovely spirited services for both erev shabbat and Shabbat morning - from lighting candles at Temple to reading from miketz and discussing the power of dreams in Jewish tradition [va-yikatz, "to be shaken (not stirred) awake", applies to the dream stories of Jacob's ladder, Pharaoh's seven cows/seven ears of corn, as well as King Solomon recognizing the role wisdom plays in his ability to rule] - it's been a lovely Shabbat Hanukkah.
Now - taking it easy on the first full day of the kids' winter break - we're getting ready to cook up a storm: Jazzdaddy's sweet'n'sour ribs have been slow cooking all afternoon; appetizers galore are ready to be made; and we'll figure a good movie to enjoy...with truly nothing much to worry about for the rest of the weekend...another Hanukkah gift.
This fifth night of the Festival of Lights coincides with the eve of Christmas: as we fire up our chanukiot - continuing to bring light into darkness - our wish for our Christian loved ones, friends and neighbors is that it is a meaningful, fulfilling holiday for those who celebrate.
SHAVUA TOV - may it be a good week for us all...

OCHO KANDELIKAS, pt. IV - Shabbat Hanukkah

2011-12-23T14:54:00.004-05:00

HANNUKAH 2011/5772, fourth night

On the seventh day God rested from the work of Creation for it was complete enough to engage us, the human family, to be Divine partners throughout time in maintaining and perfecting the world.

These words (or something very similar) are what I say to introduce kiddush every Shabbat eve during t'filah. As we are ready to recite the blessing over wine, with which we recognize the sanctity ascribed to Shabbat, we are reminded of the great gift represented by this day, and our responsibility to lead the way in improving the world.

And there's something extra special about the Shabbat during Hanukkah: with the warm, fun, light-hearted nature of the Festival of Lights, the gathering of family and friends, and especially the overlap of joyous Shabbat and Hanukkah melodies - it is certainly among the most enjoyable Shabbatot of any given year. We read parashat miketz in the Torah, which includes Pharaoh's dreams and Joseph's interpretations about years of famine and plenty - amplifying the Jewish encouragement to dream big, as well as to plan ahead to take care of our needs and the needs of our loved ones and community. If there is anything that the intended rest on Shabbat is meant to teach us, it is surely this theme.

The 4th night of Hanukkah will soon be upon us. As we kindle our chanukiot, half-way through the holiday - may we truly know on this seventh day shavat vayinafash - a day of refreshment and renewal...SHABBAT SHALOM!

OCHO KANDELIKAS, pt. III

2011-12-22T17:51:00.002-05:00

HANUKKAH 2011/5772, third night
LIGHTING UP THE WORLD (thanks to Peter Himmelman and David Broza)
This Festival of Lights is about shining light in places of darkness, bringing compassion into the world, and sharing love. The word "Hanukkah" itself of course means "dedication." How do we demonstrate our dedication to those causes we support? By volunteering, participating, and yes by contributing funds as well. Hanukkah always falls toward the end of the secular calendar year - when some of us think of "year end" charitable donations. Now is as good time as any to donate to the Jewish institutions, agencies and programs that enrich our lives - and especially to those that are shaping the experiences of the next generation. On this third eve of the holiday, as we enjoy exchanging gifts and the joy of the season, consider also - wherever possible - an additional generous contribution to your synagogue, community center, Jewish camps and schools, and the national organizations on which we rely throughout the year(s).
Three specific suggestions come to mind:
1. Make a gift to the campership fund of URJ's Olin-Sang-Ruby camp (OSRUI can be reached at www.osrui.org); this will assist additional children attend and benefit from the strength of Reform Jewish summer camping.
2. Support the newly launched Campaign for Youth Engagement of the URJ (www.urj.org); this movement-wide initiative is aiming at joining together the arms of Reform Judaism to develop and enhance our ability to engage and cultivate the next generation of American Jews.
3. Donate to YOUR local syangogue! I know that any congregation will appreciate whatever you are able to provide - which will help further the ability to serve the community through education, worship, and caring outreach on every level. For example, you can reach Temple Beth-El of South Bend, IN at www.tbe-sb.org, (574) 234-4402.
Give from your heart - gifts that truly keep on giving!

OCHO KANDELIKAS, pt. II

2011-12-21T15:51:00.003-05:00

HANUKKAH 2011/5772, second night
HODU L'ADONAI KI TOV - "Praise Adonai, for God is good, God's steadfast love is eternal." (Ps. 118: 1).

Today has been the first day of Hanukkah. It is customary to recite the full hallel (Psalms 113-118) on each morning of the festival - explicitly giving thanks to God "for the miracles, for the redemption, for the mighty deeds and saving acts" done for our ancestors (Al Ha-nisim, based on rendering in Mishkan T'filah, p. 556). Through the generations, many beautiful, uplifting musical settings have been written for the rich and inspiring words of these poems of praise.

As we approach the second night of the holiday - I ask you to consider: what are the songs, poems, and music that arouse and express your gratitude for the good stuff of life?

At this very moment - Joe Black's Pitchu Li, Shefa Gold's Ozi v'Zimrat Yah, and Bonia Shur's Hodu L'Adonai come to mind, as they radiate from my iPod. These are a few of my faves...what are yours?

Ocho Kandelikas: a little thought for each night of Hanukkah

2011-12-20T16:14:00.002-05:00

HANUKKAH 2011/5772, first night

This week marks the 25th yahrzeit since the passing of my grandmother, Mary Siroka. Hard to believe how much time has gone. I was a sophomore in college (at American University, Harvard on the Potomac :) and was on winter break. Mom, Dad, Eliot and I were vactioning in Hawaii when we got the call, the morning of the day before the first eve of the holiday. People plan, God laughs. Dad quickly re-arranged our travel plans so we could get to New York for the funeral, and be with our extended family. Change of pace indeed. We flew through LAX (where Dad insisted on purchasing me a t-shirt with Fred and Barney doing the hula) and arrived at JFK on a blustery cold morning (the warmest item of clothing I had with me was an AU sweatshirt, needless to say no appropriate outfit for the service). Getting settled, Dad and I hustled out to Alexander's to get me a jacket and tie, etc.

The funeral itself has an indelible place in my mind: it may have been the last time that all 15 of grandma's grandchildren were together in the same place. I'll never forget spending those first few eves of that Hanukkah centered at my uncle Harold and aunt Shirley's house - Dad and his siblings and cousins recounting stories, the aunts and uncles bragging about us kids, and even seeing the Japanese flag Harold had captured in the Pacific during the war. Tears, laughter, camaraderie, love....a touching festival of light.

This year, as we celebrate the onset of Hanukkah - be mindful of those in your life (living and long gone) who fill you with light.

CHAG URIM SAMEYACH - wishing you a happy, healthy, love-filled Hanukkah.

What does Reform mean to you?

2011-11-30T21:44:00.002-05:00

Okay - at this point, I can actually say I've been involved with the Reform Movement in Judaism for well more than 40 yrs (born into it, and having played some active role as a Reform Jew the entire time since). Reform - the preeminent progressive presence in Judaism - remains the most vital, relevant and ever-expanding Jewish response to modern times (to somewhat quote a beloved teacher, Michael Meyer of HUC-JIR). A great deal has been said and written lately about this being a very significant time of change and transformation for Reform, and especially its leading institutional body - the Union for Reform Judaism (URJ). And yet - as a dynamically evolving element of Jewish tradition, Reform is ALWAYS at a time of transition; perhaps this is its defining notion (some of you will remember the ol' booklet Reform is a Verb).
In about two weeks, literally thousands of Reform Jews will join together from around North America and the world for the URJ's Biennial Convention, the largest gathering of Jewish professional and lay leaders (for more on Biennial, go to http://urjbiennial.zerista.com/). Highlight of this convention will be the Education Summit focusing on the Campaign for Youth Engagement. I'm extra proud that Debra has a significant role in all this...
Each Biennial I've attended has become a favorite experience of mine - and I am very much looking forward to this edition of the "family gathering" of our denomination. As I get ready to attend (and yes, think about the programs, the people, and even what to wear) - I ask myself - what does Reform mean to me? As a contemporary American I have the privilege of considering this question; as a progressive Jew, I also have the obligation to continue seeking a meaningful response.

JamesBrownthehardestworkingmaninrock'n'roll (and Jewish life)

2011-11-14T19:05:00.003-05:00

OKAY - so the month following the fall Holy Days (mostly coinciding with the Hebrew month of Cheshvan - called by the sages mar cheshvan - "poor cheshvan" because of the lack of holidays) has been entirely too busy. Thank goodness it's mainly been with wonderful, positive, uplifting stuff: we had the opportunity (along with the local Muslim community) to sponsor the re-broadcast of Robert Satloff's Among the Righteous on WNIT, followed by an in-studio town hall discussion among leaders of our local religious community (for more, see http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ugrngWdmQ1M).
Then, we had our wonderful scholar-in-residence weekend with culinary author and teacher Tina Wasserman - proving once again that entree into Judaism is often through the stomach. Find Tina's work at www.cookingandmore.com.
We then hosted author, historian and filmmaker Satloff as our annual Kristallnacht commemoration speaker...after which I had the honor to serve as a guest artist for a URJ program on adult learning through the arts. Conducting tefilah and sharing materials on using music in the Jewish educational setting was both challenging and uplifting...though tired after these 36 hours, it's totally worth it. http://urj.org/learning/teacheducate/workshop
And this isn't even to mention the upcoming United Religious Community pre-Thanksgiving event next weekend! Busy is blessed...

2011-10-27T22:34:00.003-04:00

It was a fall evening, long time ago...staying up way past bedtime...I remember watching Carlton Fisk's epic homer in the '75 series - Reds/Red Sox (perhaps the best ever)...I can picture the layout of our family room, exactly where the TV was, and all that...

Yes, I recall the '86 series - sitting by myself in the lounge on the 6th floor of Letts Hall at AU - watching the debacle - the implosion of the Sox who were going to actually win the title in my lifetime....

And of course, being in our kitchen in Flemington, NJ as caveman Johnny Damon heroically knocked the curse Yankees out for good...and as the Sox actually did fulfill their hoped-for promise...

And tonight, as the Rangers and Cards are tied in game 6 of the 2011 fall classic, I can't help but be caught up in the angst, anxiety, excitement and love of being a fan.

Whoever wins - it's been a great season - because it's baseball. And for whoever loses - just wait 'til next year.

Play ball....

For what are you thankful?

2011-10-16T19:00:00.002-04:00

On this Sukkot - time of our rejoicing - for what are you thankful?

Me - the various opportunities to teach in the community, and to build community with so many wonderful people from different backgrounds...

(photo above from recent guest teaching appearance and St. Mary's, Notre Dame IN.)

A thought for Shabbat, just prior to the 9-11 10th anniversary

2011-09-09T23:56:00.001-04:00

May this Shabbat of sacred commemoration also be one of celebration. As we look back with tenderness on the tragic events of 9-11 (and following), and still deal with the pain and challenge that has ensued - I hope we also find the strength of our highest values inspiring us to work together to build bridges of understanding across all lines. Wishing you a weekend of PEACE, compassion, good times, and especially much love...SHABBAT SHALOM!!!

Preseason begins - thought for the first day of Elul

2011-08-31T15:37:00.002-04:00

I've come to think of Elul (the month preceding Rosh HaShanah, in which we prepare for the New Year) to be something of a "preseason" for those of us who think in terms of Jewish time. As we begin looking toward the High Holy Days, we have a chance to ready ourselves - physically, spiritually, intellectually, emotionally - for the turning of the year, and what it represents regarding possiblities for improvement and renewal in our lives.

Entering this Holy Day preseason, I know I'm fortunate to be in a community in which so many people appreciate the value of interreligious dialogue and learning. This has given me a great array of opportunities for my own growth and involvement, which continues with interfaith work nearly every day. Early this morning I had the chance to be a guest for the men's bible group at Sunnyside Presbyterian Church. My friend and colleage Jamie Miller had invited me over the summer. The group had provided a list (ok, 3 pages) of topics, questions, and comments mainly revolving around its exporation of Deuteronomy. For about an hour, I was privilege to join in (and add to) a lively discussion among a dozen men who really wanted to gain from my differing background and perspective. And discovering our similar notions about text interpretation and the evolving nature of healthy religions was again reaffirming of our common humanity and sacred responsibilities.

As well, I note that today is the Muslim holy day Eid al-Fitr, culminating the observance of Ramadan. It seems no coincidence that whatever our faith backgrounds, the cycles of our sacred seasons (and their resonant themes) mingle and overlap. I learned just recently that one of the practices on Eid is to provide for the needs of the poor that they too can celebrate the holiday. This tradition, Sadaqah al-Fitr (righteous giving for the fast-breaking), is a direct parallel to our Jewish commitment to Tzedakah - working for justice. The world actually seems a smaller and better place as I recognize these sacred connections.

I hope that all who are working to enhance their religious expression or are seeking to improve our world have a meaningful Elul and productive preseason.

Looking for love, or, uh, inspiration

2011-08-19T15:13:00.003-04:00

Summer's been a pretty darn good one :) yet I seem to be at a loss for creative inspiration. If you've got the keys to creativity (or at least a suggestion or two how to recapture it), PLEASE share....

What baffles me most about this is that we had GREAT experiences at camp (as always), and a fabulous vacation in the SW - both OSRUI and Arizona provide engaging, memorable activities and opportunities - seemingly without end....(I just can't get my head in the game)....

It's soon to be Elul - like the preseason for the new year 5772....so whatever creative sparks you've got - I'd sure appreciate....

Camp Camp

2011-07-11T17:26:00.004-04:00

What a terrific session it has been so far - half way through Kallah Bet at OSRUI. The kids are great, the staff is fabulous, and of course working with my colleagues and friends on faculty is as enriching as ever.

As we explore the *North American Jewish Experience*, the children have been exposed to a great range of ideas about the emergence and uniqueness of our community here, as well as to the rich and broad spectrum of Jewish life on this continent. Highlights have included: immigrating through Ellis Island and navigating first steps into the "New World"; decision-making as free and equal citizens in a democratic society; and how we articulate our beliefs in a positive and constructive manner (for our session on the platforms of Reform Judaism, we set the stage by conducting our morning t'fila - oops, I mean worship - in a "classic" style, right out of the good ol' Union Prayer Book. Most of the unit had never had such an experience. Thanks especially to my faculty partner, Rabbi Batsheva Apel, who served as a circuit rabbi in the south and has probably led more services out of UPB in the last 5 years than anyone :).
And this morning - our limmud (study) topic was to cover the Reform tradition of political activism and working for social justice. The program went great - as the staff did a marvelous job in making the situation (a lost opportunity for a pool party) believable as an excuse to protest. While teaching the chanichim (campers) about tikkun olam (repairing the world) and tzedek (justice) - we were able to bring these values directly to our young people - making the conceptual into something they could grasp. The campers wowed us with their ability to relate this (mild) situation to the greater issues that have faced our world and our movement - they offered such parallels as civil rights, genocide, hunger, poverty, and environmental concerns. We should be proud that these young Jews, entering grades 5-7, are truly ready (and able!) to change the world.
Oh how much I'm looking forward to the rest of our time at camp!
For more, be sure to follow @jazzrabbi and @ravbat7 on Twitter.

The son becomes the father, and the father becomes the son

2011-07-03T08:16:00.002-04:00

It was the last Tuesday of June, 1979. I was twelve years old, and a newly "entering 7th grader". The car - my parents' '79 Oldsmobilve Delta 88 Royale, in which I'd learn to drive a few years later - was packed to the hilt (well, not really, as the trunk was big enough to use as a dwelling for a medium sized family). Mom and Dad were driving me and Eliot off to summer camp for the first time. I don't recall what my thoughts were as we headed west to the Berkshires for my initial visit to URJ Eisner Camp (where I would spend the subsequent 10 summers). I do, however, remember exactly the moments of welcome when we arrived. A young counselor (Adam Marshall, I believe) helped shlep my stuff in bunk 11, and I was greeted by three fellow campers (Mike, Michael and Jon) who already had a couple years of camp experience between them (of all wonderful things, I'm in touch with each of them - to some degree or another - to this very day).
Looking back - there are a few things I know for certain. Attending camp for those years remains a most powerful building block in my life. And for a young Jewish kid less than a year away from Bar Mitzvah, it was clearly the most significant leap I'd ever taken in developing my own sense of self, and Jewish identity.
Skip to today. This morning, our family of four heads off to Wisconsin for two glorious weeks at URJ OSRUI. I am privileged to serve on faculty (very cool, kinda ironic), while our kids get to soak up the experience of being campers at the best place on earth. Granted, this is not their first year...yet as we finish packing the magic bus (our 2011 Honda Odyssey could easily fit into the back of my parents' trusty ol' Olds :) I am touched by the idea that Ben, now a newly entering 7th grader, is now subject to the same hopes, fears, uncertainties and enthusiasm as every such kid must be, less than a year away from the milestone of Bar Mitzvah. It's crazy I know, but closing my eyes, my opening moments at camp were like just a moment ago. And yet it's truly been a lifetime and more. I simply hope that Ben will also grow to cherish these times like no other...

2011-06-26T11:42:00.002-04:00

Only once in my life did I seriously consider making aliya - moving to Israel. A (very) brief thought crossed my mind about how exciting/challenging/fulfilling it might be to cultivate my Jewish identity in our ancient homeland.
Mostly, I have come to understand that it is a gift to be Jewish in the Western world. As a modern, progressive, somewhat worldly Jew, I remain an adamant supporter/lover of Israel - the people, the state, and what it has come to mean emotionally: a symbol of a thriving spectrum of Jewish life after so many years of dispersion, oppression and uprootedness. And yet, our history in the diaspora has allowed and cause Judaism to evolve in so many magnificent ways, and to bring its universal prophetic message of tikkun olam (repairing the world) to all corners of the earth.
Currently, as always, great conversations are underway about the meaning, purpose, and "rules" regarding aliya (for more, go to www.ejewishphilanthropy.com). My question remains: is aliya an ideal for which Western Jews should strive, or the fulfillment of hard-core Zionism (only) for some? I don't think I'll ever have a complete answer, as reality (and my heart) lies somewhere in between.

pre-'67?

2011-05-20T13:25:00.002-04:00

Earlier this month, I celebrated a birthday. I was born just a month before the Six Day War, in 1967. I remember learning about the great victory this was for Israel: the nation, not yet 20 years after its establishment, had bolstered its security and laid to rest any doubts about its will and intent to survive, even if surrounded by hostile foes.

Forty-four years later, many of the same challenges to Israel and the region still exist. Over these ensuing decades, there have been continued ups and downs for the Jewish State - continued strife and additional wars, the strain of its sibling-like relationship with the U. S. (and all the love and baggage that goes with any such relationship), and especially the internal and ongoing challenge to live up to being a country that exemplifies Jewish values (including yet not limited to justice, righteousness, mercy, and pluralism - social, political AND religious) that should be applied to ALL the permanent residents within its borders.

Part of the historic controversy regarding Israel's place in the world has been brought out by President Obama's remarks just yesterday. In proposing Israel's "pre-1967 borders" as a guideline for resumption of talks with the Palestinians, Mr. Obama has raised concerns (rightly or wrongly) among people who note that no previous U.S. president had yet used that term.

As has been pointed out, the overall concept offered in the President's speech regarding a two-state solution with mutual respect and security doesn't differ much, if at all, from the generally accepted norm - yet again, it's not so much what you say, but rather how you say it (and more so, how it is heard).

Well, I guess the resolution of the Israel-Palestinian situation won't necessarily be found in this current year...yet with patience, trust, and the true desire to create a better world, perhaps in our lifetime...

my birthday wish

2011-05-06T15:49:00.002-04:00

You say it's your birthday

It's my birthday too, yeah...

Well, it is my birthday, and I'm thankful for the hundreds of greetings sent my way, and for the beautiful sunshine out my window.

And, perhaps inspired (agitated?) by the wonderful experience I had earlier this week attending the Consultation on Conscience - the premiere social justice program on political advocacy conducted by the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism - I am hoping for something further on this birthday. Don't get me wrong, I'm not looking for any gifts, cards, or even cake. Rather, I see this day - if it's to be a celebration of life - to be a chance to ask for something even more important; and that's to ask my family and friends, community members and acquaintances to make their voices heard in the ongoing struggle for social justice. Specifically on this occasion, I want us ALL to consider the importance of advocating to protect women's health care access and rights.

There's been a recent controversy about potential legislation that would de-fund Planned Parenthood - and basically strip this vital agency (and others) from providing the great range of health care services that it has offered, which have gone to enhance and maintain the lives of so many women - and especially so many who wouldn't be able to receive appropriate medical care and guidance elsewhere.

At the Consultation, we were fortunate to hear from Cecile Richards, president of Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA). With grace, intelligence and eloquence, she demonstrated (once again) the positive and wide-ranging effect that Planned Parenthood has in our society, and how undermining its activities would jeopardize the ability for thousands of women to receive even the most basic levels of medical attention. And then we were treated to a presentation by Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro, of Connecticutt. She too expressed our great need to protect women's health care programs, for the good of our society and the world. Congresswoman DeLauro also showed how our reluctance (or inability) to do so is tied to some of the issues that face women around the world: from unchecked violence and subjugation to the attribution of second-class standing (which unfortunately still plagues our American culture in many ways as well).

I am indebted to these to strong, positive women for championing such an important cause on behalf of some 1/2 of our population. Of course, its not only women who are affected by these issues - for what involves some of us, ultimately reaches all of us.

So, back to my birthday for a moment. On this day, and every, I recognize how fortunate I am - If any member of my family ever needs anything (whether a new pair of shoes, a trip to the doctor, or even a unnecessary luxury), we're basically able to get it, no matter what. And I know that so many people are not in that position, lacking medical coverage, a decent job, or a place to live. My hope is that we can work toward ending this situation - that one day, maybe even in my lifetime, that no one - woman, man, or child, will go without their needs being met. It's not only my hope for this; it has to be my voice, my actions, and yes my money that go to making the world a better place.

One last thing: every year, I used to look forward to receiving a birthday check. Now, I'm finishing my celebration by writing one to a worthy cause. Maybe you can too. Happy Birthday!

Tikkun Olam and striving to root out oppression should be front page news EVERY DAY

2011-04-26T19:01:00.002-04:00

Yesterday, the local paper - the South Bend Tribune - ran a story on its cover page about the meaning of Passover. For it the author interviewed me (well, more realistically, we chatted for about 10 minutes in which I responded to about 2.5 questions which were all pretty basic). In responding to his interest in the meaning of the holiday, I suggested that Passover is one of the many Jewish occasions on which we are all reminded of our responsibility to improve the world.
He said something like "so, on Passover, Jewish think about making the world better." I corrected him - while cringing into the phone - that Jews focus on our human responsibility to perform acts of tikkun olam - perfecting the world - all the time.
A few days later, as the article ran on the cover under the title "Rabbi reflects on the meaning of Passover," I couldn't help but think to myself "man, if only this message could be broadcast each and every day." For if there is any meaning to Passover, to Jewish life itself, it is the shared human obligation to seek mercy, do justice, and walk humbly with the Divine at all times.

If you'd like to see the article, go to

http://www.southbendtribune.com/news/sbt-20110425sbtmicha-01-03-20110425,0,2874062.story

2011-04-22T13:50:00.000-04:00

At our recent Passover seders, we were reminded of the words Moses spoke to Pharaoh, pleading for Israelite liberation from slavery: “So says Adonai...‘Let My people go, that they may serve Me’” (Exodus 9:1). The purpose of our freedom is to serve the Divine. And just what does that mean? Since ancient days, Judaism as promoted a prophetic vision of a better world, one made so by our active involvement in tikkun olam – the work of social justice. It is our task to cry out against injustice, oppression and cruelty wherever and whenever they appear – no matter who the victim, no matter what the risk. This illustrates the perspective of progressive Judaism, and one of the reasons I am proud and privileged to be part of the Reform movement. As you should know – and as I’ve been discussing for weeks – this year marks the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism (the RAC). As the RAC has published about these 50 years:

the RAC has been the hub of Jewish social justice and legislative activity in Washington, D.C. As the DC office of the Union for Reform Judaism, the RAC educates and mobilizes the Reform Jewish community on legislative and social concerns, advocating on more than 70 different issues, including economic justice, civil rights, religious liberty, Israel and more. The RAC’s work is mandated by the Union for Reform Judaism, whose 900+ congregations across North America include 1.5 million Reform Jews, and the Central Conference of American Rabbis (CCAR), whose membership includes more than 1,800 Reform rabbis. Representatives of these two organizations, as well as the Union’s affiliates, comprise the Commission on Social Action of Reform Judaism, which governs the RAC’s policy positions.

For more, go to www.rac.org.

Most importantly, the RAC is OUR voice. Along with the status the Reform movement has gains through our social justice activism; it takes our support to ensure the reach of Jewish values in our society and world. I ask you to be an even greater partner in this sacred work: learn more about the RAC and its activities; sign up for its email distribution list; contribute your time and resources to the issues that concern you and surely affect others.My colleague Jonathan Stein, newly elected president of the CCAR (the Reform rabbinical body) said, “tikkun olam remains the coin of the realm in the Reform movement. Let us be vigilant to ensure that our freedom and opportunity is spent wisely, that our actions, words and deeds continue to serve the Divine.

2011-04-07T13:19:00.003-04:00

Had the great opportunity this morning to be part of a panel for my friend Dave Campbell's political science class at Notre Dame. Dave, along with Bob Putnam, is author of the recent book "American Grace: How Religion Divides us and Unites Us" (about which I've written previously). For my part, I was able to speak a bit about my own background, education and experience, and address how Reform Judaism fits in the spectrum of American religious life. Several of the students had visited Temple (or one of the other local congregations represented by the panelists), so it became an even more comfortable forum for them to ask questions related to our remarks or their studies. A few students joined us guests for lunch following the class session, which capped off the experience in a very warm and inviting way.
Perhaps the most interesting aspect of this episode for me - also going a long way to Dave and Bob's thesis in their book - was the makeup of the presenting team. In addition to one priest from the Notre Dame community itself, the others of us have even closer connections beyond today's class. Professor Campbell is also a neighbor, whose son attends school with and is the dearest friend to my son; a third presenter, Scott Scheel, serves Edwardsburg Presbyterian Church (Edwardsburg, MI), and ALSO lives in our subdivision, and has a son who goes to school and is friends with both young Campbell and young Siroka. Our final presenter, a twenty-something from Granger Community Church (the local "mega-church"), not only grew up in our very neighborhood, his parents are still here, so he considers our locale "home". The idea that 5 professionals from such very disparate places on the religious spectrum could be so personally interconnected remains one of the most powerful, and uplifting elements of our lives today.
As a life-long Reform Jew, and a rabbi privileged to serve this unique community, I couldn't be more jazzed by this chance...

And the good times did roll - #ccar11 in review

2011-04-04T15:37:00.004-04:00

"Tikkun Olam is still the coin of the realm in the Reform Movement." So said Rabbi Jonathan Stein in his introductory remarks as the new president of the Central Conference of American Rabbis (CCAR). This brief line stands out as one highlight of a very exciting, fulfilling and inspiring five days spent with several hundred colleagues in New Orleans. Launching his term with such a reinvigorating statement serves also to affirm what I hold about Reform's brand of progressive Judaism: that our primary goal is to see Jewish living as a framework through which we execute our Divine mission to improve, repair, and heal the world. Perhaps more simply, that through our deeds and words, we make the world better for our having been here.
There were of course a great many more focal points for my attendance at this year's gathering: marking the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Religious Action Center (with inspiring words from Rabbis David Saperstein, Lynne Landsberg, and my dear old friend Jonah Pesner); being with some of my fellow Brickner Fellows; studying with HUC-JIR president David Ellenson; "visioning" sessions about the future of Reform Judaism and the rabbinate; vibrant discussion about the movement (thanks to the RVI); early-morning and late-nite conversations with friends and colleagues....
...I even hear we were situated near the French Quarter :)
OKAY, so there were also the sights and sounds and tastes of the host city to enjoy - great meals and music shared with dear friends, as we recharged our batteries while engaging one another with the most important topics we face as rabbis and people.
As I blogged from last year's convention: the challenges of travel can detract from the experience; once again, the conference itself, and the many present with whom I had the chance to spend time, made it all worth while. Letting the good times (continue to) roll, and looking forward to next year in Boston.

Protests, civil disobedience, and revolution

2011-02-28T21:17:00.002-05:00

This has certainly been an interesting few weeks, for anyone who pays attention to the worldwide (and local) social and political scene. From Tunisia, Egypt and Libya to Wisconsin, Indiana and Ohio - we are witnessing shifts in the landscape ranging subtle to seismic. Amazing to watch the power of mobilization and mobility in play, perhaps unlike any time yet in history. Tweets and texts have added to the tools of those who instigate, organize, and orchestrate all forms of political action from peaceable protest to violent upheaval.
On a much more limited scale, I was fortunate to take a very small part in such activity this evening. At tonight's meeting of the South Bend Common Council, a resolution was to be introduced that would voice this community's concern about legislation that is pending in the Indiana Senate (S.B. 590, which would toughen restriction and regulations around the issue of immigration policy, etc., a la recent news items in AZ). Such a morally outrageous step would be detrimental to our community and region, beyond the economic factors that have been stated. These kinds of anti-immigrant moves (coming from a generally bigoted perspective) go a long way to denigrating and de-valuing the people involved.
The local Hispanic community, which has been working to create a network through which to address its concerns in the public sphere, did an admirable job in mobilizing a supportive presence to attend the Common Council session. I was asked to attend by a fellow member of our congregation (who, in addition to being our Social Justice chair, serves on the Reform movement's Commission on Social Action. Together we have been working to build bridges in our broader community that cross religious, racial, and socio-economic lines).
By the time we arrived, the Council chamber was already packed to standing-room-only. No one was being admitted, and a very large number of additional people filled the lobby area just outside. We cocked our heads, trying to hear inside, to little avail. After some time, an entire team of firemen appeared, expressing concern for the potentially hazardous situation of so many people possibly blocking safe access or exit. We were told to leave the area, and congregate in the main lobby downstairs. At this time, the officers closed the door to the chamber - which of course was a visually disconcerting gesture, as if to say to the crowd we are disallowing your participation in the process of government.
The entire group did gather in the lobby, very patiently and peacefully awaiting news from the Council chamber. Eventually, the results were reported - the Council passed the resolution unanimously, 8-0. Cheers erupted and the organizers addressed the crowd. There was a sense of accomplishment and pride that on this occasion our community, no matter what its challenges, declared its solidarity with ALL its residents, and will strive to support fair and just immigration policy.
Looking around, and noting clearly that I was one of just a handful of non-Hispanics in the assembly of several hundred people, I was awed: it's not usual that, even as a Jew, I feel in the minority. Typically being called upon as a community leader, it was again eye-opening, and even refreshing, to be overwhelmed by my sense of smallness - not even being able to understand the words of the organizers (as I do not speak Spanish). Yet the positive vibe was powerful, and the feeling of being part of something good was undeniable. As we left the building to make our way back to my friend's car, we shared these thoughts - both of us knowing, even more than before, that we are fortunate with the lives we have: our families of origin, the opportunities we've been given, and the generation in which we were born have made sure that we have never known disadvantage or bigotry on any significant level. As we parted with our Hispanic friends, I was reminded once again of my responsibility to all my fellow human beings, friend and stranger alike, for we were strangers too.

that nagging question

2011-02-14T17:17:00.002-05:00

I bet most of us, from time to time, imagine our lives to be something very different from what they are: entirely different job or career, other locale, even changed group of people. Overall, this imaginative day-dreaming is probably part of a healthy psyche.

So - if you could pick *anything* - right now - what would you do with your life? Just curious.

balance, shmalance

2011-02-07T13:34:00.002-05:00

I'm wondering how you maintain "balance" (whatever THAT means) in your life...

Simplying thinking of the variety of activities, opportunities, and responsibilities of my previous few days, I recognize that perhaps "balance" (i.e. that all aspects of life are weighed out uniformly, as with a chemist's balance or a gyroscope in order to maintain a completely even keel) is a misapplied term, especially in our crazy/busy/hectic world today.

The word "manage" isn't much better - as it doesn't sound too good to me to say "I'm managing to get by." How about we consider "navigate" - like the explorers of old, pilots, captains - taking charge of our destiny as well as the conduct of day-to-day affairs, with purpose and vision.

Better question: how are you navigating your life? What are the markers and rituals that guide your path (like setting time for family and friends, regular exercise, the art class you look forward too each week)? And what serves as a key to your map as you continue - in what ways are you reflective about where you've been, your current condition, where you are plotting to go (dental checkups...professional development opportunities...chances to catch up with dear friends...)?

Rather than worrying about *maintaining balance* (which seems unattainable), let's spend energy on charting our course. Thinking back, looking around, and especially moving ahead.

a new time for America?

2011-01-27T21:26:00.003-05:00

The State of the Union address, two nights ago, seemed to be somewhat different than what I recall in recent years: rather than the chief executive slinging defensive, partisan barbs, promises and views at the "others" across the proverbial aisle - it seemed a much more positive, even conciliatory event. Due in great part (unfortunately) to the tragic incident in Tucson earlier this month, many delegates chose to sit with their other-party counterparts, maybe even weaving a stronger fabric of American leadership in that gesture alone. Rather than the hurrahs, boos, cheers and cat-calls, there was a greater measure of respectful listening to what the President had to offer.
It is about time that all of us, no matter what party affiliation or political perspective, realize that when we come together as a nation, we have a much better chance to overcome our challenges, and even more so to live up toward the American promise of creativity, innovation, and success in every endeavor. May it yet be...

Don’t let it be forgot, that once there was a spot ...

2011-01-20T08:50:00.004-05:00

“In the long history of the world, only a few generations have been granted the role of defending freedom in its hours of maximum danger. I do not shrink from this responsibility, I welcome it.”

So said John F. Kennedy, 50 years ago today, upon his inauguration as the 35th President of the United States. It has been a half century since the beginning of Kennedy's Camelot, the 1000 day presidency that symbolized the post-war hope for idyllic happiness - framed by youthful optimism and zeal for social justice. Growing up outside Boston, in JFK's political backyard, his impact and legacy were venerated even in the early years following the assassination. I truly believe that my parents (liberal New York Jews who had transplanted to Massachusetts when I was very young) saw themselves as products of the Kennedy era. This fit so nicely with the spirit of brotherhood, activism, civil rights, and global concern that was expressed, especially in Reform Judaism, at the time. And as a school kid, I recall clearly studying JFK's words and deeds (well, at least those that painted a heroic portrait of the dashing young president). "PT 109" or "Profiles in Courage" were a usual choice for book reports among my classmates.
And of course, we learned the awe of his being the youngest man ever elected president, at age 43. I too was born in May (me on the 6th, JFK on the 29th), which now puts me literally within days of being exactly the same age on this day as he was when he took the oath of office (OK - that's perhaps the most difficult element of this anniversary for me to comprehend).
Still, the words that rang out on that occasion resonate to this day. Whatever your politics, however long your memory, whether you recall instantly where you were when you heard the news of the assassination or weren't yet born - give yourself a gift: read the speech given that day, consider the words, and share in the promise of a better tomorrow.

Vice President Johnson, Mr. Speaker, Mr. Chief Justice, President Eisenhower, Vice President Nixon, President Truman, reverend clergy, fellow citizens:

We observe today not a victory of party, but a celebration of freedom -- symbolizing an end, as well as a beginning -- signifying renewal, as well as change. For I have sworn before you and Almighty God the same solemn oath our forebears prescribed nearly a century and three-quarters ago. The world is very different now. For man holds in his mortal hands the power to abolish all forms of human poverty and all forms of human life. And yet the same revolutionary beliefs for which our forebears fought are still at issue around the globe -- the belief that the rights of man come not from the generosity of the state, but from the hand of God. We dare not forget today that we are the heirs of that first revolution. Let the word go forth from this time and place, to friend and foe alike, that the torch has been passed to a new generation of Americans -- born in this century, tempered by war, disciplined by a hard and bitter peace, proud of our ancient heritage, and unwilling to witness or permit the slow undoing of those human rights to which this nation has always been committed, and to which we are committed today at home and around the world.
Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe, to assure the survival and the success of liberty. This much we pledge -- and more.

To those old allies whose cultural and spiritual origins we share, we pledge the loyalty of faithful friends. United there is little we cannot do in a host of cooperative ventures. Divided there is little we can do -- for we dare not meet a powerful challenge at odds and split asunder. To those new states whom we welcome to the ranks of the free, we pledge our word that one form of colonial control shall not have passed away merely to be replaced by a far more iron tyranny. We shall not always expect to find them supporting our view. But we shall always hope to find them strongly supporting their own freedom -- and to remember that, in the past, those who foolishly sought power by riding the back of the tiger ended up inside. To those people in the huts and villages of half the globe struggling to break the bonds of mass misery, we pledge our best efforts to help them help themselves, for whatever period is required -- not because the Communists may be doing it, not because we seek their votes, but because it is right. If a free society cannot help the many who are poor, it cannot save the few who are rich. To our sister republics south of our border, we offer a special pledge: to convert our good words into good deeds, in a new alliance for progress, to assist free men and free governments in casting off the chains of poverty. But this peaceful revolution of hope cannot become the prey of hostile powers. Let all our neighbors know that we shall join with them to oppose aggression or subversion anywhere in the Americas. And let every other power know that this hemisphere intends to remain the master of its own house. To that world assembly of sovereign states, the United Nations, our last best hope in an age where the instruments of war have far outpaced the instruments of peace, we renew our pledge of support -- to prevent it from becoming merely a forum for invective, to strengthen its shield of the new and the weak, and to enlarge the area in which its writ may run. Finally, to those nations who would make themselves our adversary, we offer not a pledge but a request: that both sides begin anew the quest for peace, before the dark powers of destruction unleashed by science engulf all humanity in planned or accidental self-destruction.

We dare not tempt them with weakness. For only when our arms are sufficient beyond doubt can we be certain beyond doubt that they will never be employed. But neither can two great and powerful groups of nations take comfort from our present course -- both sides overburdened by the cost of modern weapons, both rightly alarmed by the steady spread of the deadly atom, yet both racing to alter that uncertain balance of terror that stays the hand of mankind's final war.

So let us begin anew -- remembering on both sides that civility is not a sign of weakness, and sincerity is always subject to proof. Let us never negotiate out of fear, but let us never fear to negotiate. Let both sides explore what problems unite us instead of belaboring those problems which divide us. Let both sides, for the first time, formulate serious and precise proposals for the inspection and control of arms, and bring the absolute power to destroy other nations under the absolute control of all nations. Let both sides seek to invoke the wonders of science instead of its terrors. Together let us explore the stars, conquer the deserts, eradicate disease, tap the ocean depths, and encourage the arts and commerce. Let both sides unite to heed, in all corners of the earth, the command of Isaiah -- to "undo the heavy burdens, and [to] let the oppressed go free." And, if a beachhead of cooperation may push back the jungle of suspicion, let both sides join in creating a new endeavor -- not a new balance of power, but a new world of law -- where the strong are just, and the weak secure, and the peace preserved.

All this will not be finished in the first one hundred days. Nor will it be finished in the first one thousand days; nor in the life of this Administration; nor even perhaps in our lifetime on this planet. But let us begin. In your hands, my fellow citizens, more than mine, will rest the final success or failure of our course. Since this country was founded, each generation of Americans has been summoned to give testimony to its national loyalty. The graves of young Americans who answered the call to service surround the globe. Now the trumpet summons us again -- not as a call to bear arms, though arms we need -- not as a call to battle, though embattled we are -- but a call to bear the burden of a long twilight struggle, year in and year out, "rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation," a struggle against the common enemies of man: tyranny, poverty, disease, and war itself. Can we forge against these enemies a grand and global alliance, North and South, East and West, that can assure a more fruitful life for all mankind? Will you join in that historic effort?

In the long history of the world, only a few generations have been granted the role of defending freedom in its hour of maximum danger. I do not shrink from this responsibility -- I welcome it. I do not believe that any of us would exchange places with any other people or any other generation. The energy, the faith, the devotion which we bring to this endeavor will light our country and all who serve it. And the glow from that fire can truly light the world. And so, my fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country. My fellow citizens of the world, ask not what America will do for you, but what together we can do for the freedom of man. Finally, whether you are citizens of America or citizens of the world, ask of us here the same high standards of strength and sacrifice which we ask of you. With a good conscience our only sure reward, with history the final judge of our deeds, let us go forth to lead the land we love, asking His blessing and His help, but knowing that here on earth God's work must truly be our own.

2011 wish list

2011-01-05T21:48:00.002-05:00

OK - 2011 is well under way....we've all gotten over the New Year's celebrations, and are ready to go....

So what are YOUR hopes, desires, wishes for this year? Beyond "resolutions" (which so often fade by January 20th or so), what do you really want to accomplish, do, or even try in this calendar year - professionally? personally? secretly? deeply?

Now, like any time, is a great time to consider what is your game plan for the future. Whatever it is, may it be fulfilling, successful, enjoyable, and worthy.

your best

2010-12-28T19:03:00.003-05:00

Life is made up of experiences...some good, some not so good, some absolutely beyond imagination....

2010 has provided a great amount of inspiration for ideas, innovations and experiences.

I'm curious: what's been your BEST experiences of 2010? Don't be shy - go ahead and share....inquiring minds want to know!

Happy New Year - wishing you all best for 2011.

Miles, a tribute (April 1991 - December 21, 2010

2010-12-22T14:48:00.001-05:00

It was a pretty hot day – somewhere in the mid 80’s. I remember clearly because the air conditioner in car (our trusty 1989 Chevy Spectrum) never worked well, and we were all feeling it on the way home. There they were, in the back, panting. Two little kittens we had just acquired, cute and fuzzy and small enough each to fit in the palm of a hand. The black one – with white nose, muzzle and paws – had already demonstrated his precocious personality. He let out a little yelp that was all attitude. I said “that’s it, his name is Miles” (after my favorite jazz man with attitude). For good measure, we named the other one, female, Ella.

This was May 28, 1991, a day before Deb’s birthday. We had decided, upon moving in together, to get a cat. And now we were going home “as a family.” The kitties, who came to dominate our lives in so many ways, were the first birthday gift I ever bought for my not-yet spouse. Our lives have been enriched in so many ways over the years – making us chuckle every time we think of the original receipt: $5.99 (no tax on livestock).

Miles and Ella were with us through grad school, ordination, and finding our first jobs. They moved with us from Cincinnati to L.I. to Westchester to NJ and then South Bend. The cats were the first to welcome home our children (there’s a great picture of Miles in the borrowed bassinet we set up for Benjamin; the cat slept in it before the baby). How they climbed up and jumped off the walls while playing. Playing ring-toss with the plastic rings from a milk bottle…Miles swatting down a bat (yes, a bat) in the middle of one summer night…Ella rolling around upside down and squawking for attention…their love of raw veggies (!) rather than chicken parts…They were always entertaining, and a source of concern. As any pet lover knows, they became integral parts of the family.

Nothing lasts forever – even beloved pets. Ella died a little more than 5 years ago, just as we were looking to move from NJ. It was difficult, as she suffered from disease, and had been with us 14 years. And yet, the kids were younger, and easily more adaptable to (and perhaps less cognizant of) this change.

We just figured Miles would go on and on. He was never fazed by anything, and remained very healthy even as he aged. He too was affected by kidney problems, which often happens in older cats. However, in the few years since his sister’s demise, treatment had advanced quite a bit. As a matter of fact, the first thing we did to address his condition was feed him chicken soup. No kidding. The vet said “you need to maintain his intake of liquid and protein, so I want you to give him chicken soup.” “Really?” I muttered quizzically. “Yes”, doc said, “you’re Jewish, you get it, give him soup.”

For several months, the addition of chicken soup alone buoyed his strength and slowed the progress of disease. And of course, eventually, we had to engage other treatments and medications, until finally, yesterday, the time had come. Miles was no longer responding to meds, getting progressively weaker. Not wanting him to suffer, or go through any real physical crisis – it was clearly time to let go, say goodbye. Easily the most gut-wrenching decision we’ve ever had to make. Some times doing the right thing still hurts.

So now as a family, we mourn Miles’ loss. I know over time we will only look back with fondness, love and deep appreciation to his role in our lives: nineteen years and eight months of blessing.

Best of 2010 - your choices

2010-12-20T09:38:00.003-05:00

2010 is coming to an end. I'd love to know what have been your best experiences of the year:

Favorite book you've read?

Best meal you've had?

Most enjoyable music you've heard?

Coolest day trip/outing you've taken?

Most unexpected fun you've had?

Let me know, and we can share our good times into the New Year ahead...

Safe place

2010-12-13T09:56:00.002-05:00

"There is nothing more whole than a broken heart." This statement by Menachem Mendel of Kotzker (the Hasidic master known as the Kotzker Rebbe) expresses a profound understanding of the human condition, and the range of experiences and emotions that go into framing our lives. Often, we are prompted to ignore (or "overcome") life's difficulties - yet they too are part of what make us who we are. Not that we should "like" or "appreciate" the garbage that comes our way; we do have the capacity to embrace and manage the tough stuff we face. This does not make us weaker: rather, acknowledging - and working to manage - our challenges (illness, stress, career, family, whatever they are) allows us more fully to grow toward our potential, and live with meaning. And - we all need some way to address our broken hearts. This past weekend, I was privileged to conduct such a conversation with those attending our Shabbat morning service. Some shared their personal perspectives, looking back on the most challenging episodes they've endured, having come to see that navigating roadblocks along the path of life is part of a sacred journey. The group discussed how - even though our individual circumstances differ - we all share the "same broken-ness." There was a powerful connectedness felt through the room. And afterward, one participant took me aside, saying "thank you for making this a safe place where we can talk about what's really important." One of the most simple, most touching comments I've ever heard. What's your "safe place"? How do you embrace, address and flourish beyond the challenges you face? What helps make your broken heart whole?

2010-12-07T13:46:00.002-05:00

It’s December 7 – famously declared by FDR as “a date that will live in infamy.” This morning, surfing various news programs and listening to the radio, I didn’t hear even one mention of this significant anniversary – the attack on Pearl Harbor that plunged the US into World War II. And I recall that a few weeks ago, on November 22, I saw no attention paid to the assassination of JFK – perhaps the most tragic occurrence in modern American political history.
Growing up, it was as if these days were added to the ritual calendar (especially in our house). Both my parents, who were born during the depression, reflected on Pearl Harbor a day that changed the world entirely. As a kid growing up outside Boston (in the land of Kennedy) – the shooting of the president demanded somber respect as well as utter fascination long after it happened. For those who remember these experiences, they became defining moments in their lives. Ask and you’ll be told exactly where they were, what reports they heard, what pictures or film they saw, and the reflections of those who commented in the news, trying to bring meaning to these terrible times. For many, these were epoch-changing episodes. After Pearl Harbor, the US had to become a greater player on the world scene; after JFK’s death, we lost the post-war benign innocence of Camelot. Have we lost our collective memory as well?

In less than a year, we will commemorate the 10^th anniversary of the attacks of 9/11. That day also stands out as one of those transformative times – indelibly etched into the minds of anyone who witnessed, near or far. I wonder if after a few more short years, or in a generation, the powerful impact of that day (and all the events that have followed from it) will be lost among the debris of “other stuff”, and our over-saturation with the chaff that becomes momentarily important. Yes, it’s important to take advantage of today’s media, and our ability to know almost everything about anything. It remains our responsibility to understand that some things – ideas, facts, and parts of our past – are actually more important than others, no matter what, throughout time. Let us not forget.

Wishing you a groovy Hanukkah

2010-12-01T13:58:00.004-05:00

It's been a very full week gone by - between Thanksgiving with friends and spending last weekend in Medfield for my 25th HS reunion. Great to see so many people, and especially the chance to spend some time together with certain longest-time friends (Big Dave, MCB, etc.) and dearest ones (Rick & Lauren). Added bonus to see my own brothers after too long.

And now, we welcome Hanukkah. The Festival of Lights begins tonight, and as if on cue, the snow started falling here in Michiana over the last several hours. It's gone from a mild fall to a surly winter in just more than 24 hours.

Anyway - Hanukkah, the minor holiday that we've jazzed up with lights, decorations and gift-giving, is really yet another chance to consider all of those things in life for which we're grateful - the warmth of family and friends, good stuff to eat and enjoy, and the meaningful (and fun) things that occupy our time. As you watch the glow of the Hanukkah candles this season, I hope you have the chance to reflect on all life's goodness.

CHAG URIM SAMEYACH - wishing you a very happy Hanukkah!

And all that jazz...

Shalom, Salaam, even better

2010-11-22T12:39:00.002-05:00

Yesterday I had the great privilege to accompany our 8th, 9th, and 10th graders on a visit to the local mosque. Along with a couple of other teachers, these teenagers from Temple were able to engage with Muslim peers and adults from the Islamic Society of Michiana (ISM). Building on the outreach we had begun at Rosh HaShanah/Ramadan (see earlier post), we wanted to provide an opportunity for the young people of our congregations to continue fostering bridges of understanding between our two communities.

Beginning with our "prep" conversation, and evident through our discussions at the mosque, it quickly became clear to members of both groups that we need to explore and celebrate the many common values, ideals, customs and practices that we share. The students discovered their connections from elements of language (such as "Islam" coming from the same root as "Shalom", "mosque" being related to "mishkan", and "Hajj" (the Islamic pilgrimage) being identical with "Chag" (Hebrew for holiday/festival) to our mutual focus on foods as part of religious observance. There was a collective "aha" in the room each time someone mentioned an idea that resonated with everyone else.

As we fisrt went around the room, we all introduced ourselves by name, and for the students, also by their current school and grade level. The responses were similar. Just as when our adults visited previously, there was already a comfort among the youth, as several (of course) attend the same schools, and live in the same neighborhoods. The children went on to express very similar feelings about what it means to be part of a minority, and how it can be challenging and even demoralizing when one's religious culture is misunderstood (or viewed negatively). A beautiful and positive outcome, shared by Jewish and Muslim alike, was the comment that "real friends are sensitive and accepting of your differences." One young lady even noted "now my friends really know me as a person, they think Islam is cool."

This would have been a phenomenal visit at any time; I do feel that because of the world situation, the press, and yes how things have "changed" since 9/11, this was a truly monumental occasion for our small community, and more so for the 50 of us who were present. May this experience also be a gift that keeps on giving.

Sacred is as sacred does

2010-11-16T09:43:00.002-05:00

Over the years, a great deal has been written about "meaning", "depth", "impact", and "fulfillment", especially in terms of faith and one's religious experience. Traditionally, established institutions (church, synagogue, and other "affiliation-based" entities, which later hold sway as what we know as modern denominations) maintained somewhat of a monopoly regarding what these ideas meant, and when/how/why the functions that provide them were distributed.
In the last several years, there has been a breakdown of this establishment hegemony over "organized religious life." With the various innovative efforts on today's scene - from "non"-denominational and "post"-denominational congregations to the appearance of "emergent" and "store-front" opportunities, it is no wonder that the traditional churches and denominational movements have been working frantically to "transform" and "reinvent" themselves. Yet this is nothing new. Historically, religion and its apparatus have always evolved to remain relevant, which is the key.
For today's world, which is so interconnected through the ongoing communications revolution, it is crystal clear that "usual" forms of religious affiliation and activity are not singly sufficient (though I argue still necessary because of their potential to provide their range of worship, programming, education and social justice endeavors) to engage people in the most meaningful ways. The goal of religious involvement, remains true: to enhance people's lives through a sense of community that reflects their striving for the Divine. The human condition is one that seeks sacred community - whether within a customary setting (one of the usual "affiliation-based" entities), or (now more prevalent) beyond them. As has been demonstrated, a new generation of seekers is looking for community without congregation.
To me, a sacred community has certain key elements: it provides and fosters loving relationships, in which people feel powerfully and positively connected to one another; it offers experiences to mark our lives with sanctity (like Sabbath and holiday worship, transformative prayer and celebrating the stages of the life-cycle); and it promotes ongoing learning (religious and secular) as a prioritized value. Here's the lasting question for each of us: what are YOU looking for in terms of religious community?

where's the "wow"?

2010-11-15T14:45:00.001-05:00

I’ve been considering a thought provided by two colleagues, Terry Bookman and William Kahn. One a rabbi, the other a management professor, together they do congregational consulting. In their compelling publication, called “The House We Build”, they remind us:

Synagogues are places where Jews go to pray, learn, and become part of a religious and spiritual community. But they are more than that. They are also places where we go to feel a deep sense of comfort and familiarity. Many of us find great pleasure in singing the prayers and songs as well as humming the melodies with which we grew up. Holiday festivals stir up deep-seated memories of our childhoods. Rituals offer us a sense of connectedness to generations in our pasts, our own and those of the Jewish people. Even the physical surroundings – the light coming through the stained glass, the feel of the seat cushions, the way the ark opens, the smell of old wood – all these sensory experiences create in us a sense of the way a shul should be.

In such ways, the sights and sounds of a synagogue can be emotionally powerful for us…this experience of deep familiarity is part of what we often find comforting and meaningful about synagogues.

I agree completely. It is the emotional resonance that allows our Jewish experience to be meaningful. When something strikes a chord inside, it makes us feel truly alive. This is not about how we act Jewishly; it is why. The need for emotional fulfillment doesn’t tell us how to seek a spouse or partner, it causes us to socialize. Looking for professional satisfaction doesn’t inform us what coursework to pursue; it pushes us to strive for excellence as we explore. Knowing we can support our neighbor doesn’t give instructions about what to do for a grieving family; it impels us to do so. The obligation to be responsive to the world’s brokenness doesn’t teach us what issues deserve our attention; it inspires us to perform tikkun olam – acts to repair the world. In all these ways, a friend repeats, “it’s what we do!”

Emotional response is what reminds us that we are, according to Jewish teaching, living, breathing agents of divine in this world. When we are overwhelmed by joy, or feel like we’ve been kicked in the gut, that’s when we realize our humanity. Emotions tug at us all the time: we’ve all cried at the end of a sappy movie. We’ve all rooted for an underdog on the ball field. We’ve hollered at the person who cut us off. We’ve marveled at a breathtaking painting or piece of art. When I speak with families around their life-cycle events, I always find myself saying that these profound (though even sometimes fleeting) moments are the times when we are prompted to ask the “big” questions – “how did this happen?” or “why me?” and “what do I do now?” or “how awesome is this?” Many times, the response we find is just “wow!”

What inspires such a sense of awe in your life? Which activities, relationships, experiences and sights? That is, what fires your emotions to say “wow!”?

2010-11-10T22:20:00.001-05:00

What's your greatest hope? fear? desire? dream? All good stuff to think about....

2010-11-02T11:56:00.002-04:00

November 2nd, 1917

Dear Lord Rothschild,

I have much pleasure in conveying to you, on behalf of His Majesty's Government, the following declaration of sympathy with Jewish Zionist aspirations which has been submitted to, and approved by, the Cabinet.

"His Majesty's Government view with favour the establishment in Palestine of a national home for the Jewish people, and will use their best endeavours to facilitate the achievement of this object, it being clearly understood that nothing shall be done which may prejudice the civil and religious rights of existing non-Jewish communities in Palestine, or the rights and political status enjoyed by Jews in any other country."

I should be grateful if you would bring this declaration to the knowledge of the Zionist Federation.

Yours sincerely,

Arthur James Balfour

This letter, known as the Balfour Declaration – which established Great Britain’s support of for a Jewish homeland in Palestine – paved the way in part for the fulfillment of traditional Zionist hopes and dreams. Without this vital document, and the exertion that led to it (as well as subsequent Jewish maneuvering afterward), the process that led to the founding of the modern state of Israel would have unfolded much differently, if at all.

For modern Jewish history, today, November 2 – the anniversary of the Balfour Declaration – should be much better known. And yet, due to a variety of factors, this remains one of those “important dates in history that goes unnoticed.” I find this phenomenon fascinating.

What other significant historical moments go unnoticed? Share your thoughts, and we can all learn a bit together.

Good gigs

2010-10-29T12:41:00.003-04:00

As a rabbi, I get to do a bunch of different “stuff”. Here are some of my favorite recent gigs:

Serving on OSRUI faculty
Teaching “text and interpretation in Jewish tradition” at St. Mary’s
Singing and playing music with our community seniors
Storytelling (for any audienceJ)
The Jazz of Jewish Worship at Notre Dame

Just a few…these activities add greater dimension to my life. What are YOUR favorite extra special opportunities? What do you love to do?

Bridges of understanding

2010-10-22T14:42:00.002-04:00

Speaking at churches, teaching at Catholic universities, conducting interfaith seminars, represeting progressive ecumenical causes - these are among the many fulfillfing and significant activities that benefit from my attention, personally and professionally, every day. I've come to know that my effort to build understanding across religious and cultural lines is one of the most important pieces of my life currently. To make a positive difference in this world, which as always needs our attention, is a truly inspiring (and often awesome) prospect for any of us.

What have been your most profound experiences of interfaith dialogue? How have you worked to bridge the sacred differences among people? I'd love to know...

TALMUD TORAH K’NEGED KULAM – “The study of Torah encompasses them all”

2010-10-20T16:04:00.001-04:00

Throughout Jewish history, our tradition has held that learning (i.e. “study of Torah”) is the greatest virtue – as it leads to the performance of mitzvot (sacred obligation) and therefore includes the entire range of values that Judaism promotes. This is why we celebrate learning throughout the life-cycle with such great joy.

We have an upcoming opportunity in our community to participate with the Jewish people world-wide in such an occasion. Spearheaded by Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz – one of the most prolific and influential Jewish text scholars of our day – Jews the world over have been invited to partake in a Global Day of Jewish Learning, which will be held on Sunday, November 7^th. Rabbi Steinsaltz developed this idea to mark a significant accomplishment – the completion of his translation of the Talmud (the multi-volume work of the ancient rabbis, covering several generations of commentary and discourse, which has been one of the major foundations of Jewish thought and learning for centuries).

Our observance here in South Bend is being sponsored by the Jewish Federation along with the congregations. Our Global Day of Jewish Learning event will be held at Federation beginning at 6:30 p.m. Rabbi Friedland of Sinai Synagogue, Rabbi Nebel of the Midwest Torah Center, and I will be teaching (in a “round-robin” style, as we did for a communal night of learning with the rabbis last year) various aspects of Talmud torah – the study of Talmud text, its customary style of teaching, and how the Talmud fits in the context of Jewish learning. My piece of the program will address the history and development of this vital Jewish resource. I hope you will attend this amazing opportunity to share with our fellow Jews around the world in our love for learning.

Commenting on the upcoming Global Day of Jewish Learning, my colleague and teacher Rabbi Jan Katzew (Director of Life Long Learning for the URJ) writes very sweetly about how awe-inspiring it can be to recognize the vastness of Jewish sacred text. “I was humbled and intimidated,” he admits. And then refers to a lesson he learned from our teacher, Dr. Ben Zion Wacholder (another of the great Talmud teachers of our generation; fortunately for Reform rabbis, he has taught us at HUC-JIR, our seminary, for the past five decades). The teacher related the following story:

A “Talmid Chacham”, a Jewish scholar, once claimed to have gone through more than a hundred “pages” of Talmud and felt proud of the accomplishment until he was asked, “How many pages of Talmud have gone through you?”

For some of us, the Talmud may seem foreign and “traditional” Jewish learning might be unfamiliar. Whether you are well-versed in Jewish texts or a complete novice, our Day of Global Jewish Learning is an opportunity for all of us, no matter what our background, to share in the real joy, uplift and meaningfulness of our heritage. Join me, and together let’s find ways, as taught above, for Talmud Torah to go through us.

Life's a journey

2010-10-15T13:23:00.002-04:00

This week’s reading from the Torah includes the origins of the Abrahamic covenant, and the first notion of “promised land” in the Bible: The Lord said to Abram, “Go forth from your native land and from your father’s house to the land that I will show you (emphasis added). I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you shall be a blessing” (Gen. 12:1-2).

I find it interesting that the goal (that is, the land God will show Abram) is not specified at the outset. Our patriarch agrees to follow God without an explicit goal or endpoint being announced. The covenant begins with open-ended trust. Only subsequently is Canaan mentioned. Though Abram doesn’t initially know his destination, he is willing to begin his journey toward blessing.

WOW! The “promised land” can only be determined in partnership between humanity and the Divine. Humanity has a stake in setting the agenda, and choosing our best destiny. The same goes for each of us as well. Who’s to say where we are “supposed” to be headed? For our lives to be fulfilling, we too must be willing to undertake the journey toward blessing – and figure out how to tweak, edit, and even change course along the way. To me, the real “promised land” is the process itself by which we strive for meaning.

So take time to reflect: where are you going on your life’s path? What risks are you taking to make life meaningful? To make it pleasurable? The old expression rings true: life’s a journey – enjoy the ride!

Who are the people in YOUR neighborhood

2010-10-08T15:31:00.003-04:00

Hearing this music, singing these words, I am taken back to watching Sesame Street as a little kid (and maybe as well while riding in the car):

Oh, who are the people in your neighborhood,
In your neighborhood, in your neighborhood.
Say who are the people in your neighborhood--
The people that you meet each day?

Oh, the postman always brings the mail
Through rain or snow or sleet or hail.
I'll work, and work the whole day through
To get your letters safe to you.

TCause a postman is a person in your neighborhood,
In your neighborhood, he's in your neighborhood.
A postman is a person in your neighborhood--
A person that you meet each day.

Oh, a fireman is brave it's said.
His engine is a shiny red.
If there's a fire anywhere about.
Well, I'll be sure to put it out!

Cause a fireman is a person in your neighborhood,
In your neighborhood, he's in your neighborhood.
And a postman is a person in your neighborhood--
Well they're the people that you meet
When you're walking down the street
They're the people that you meet each day!

When “the world was younger” it was sufficient (and useful) to teach children about the postman, fireman, baker – or teacher, rabbi and doctor – the people who made up our surroundings, our “neighborhood,” each day.

And today, the emphasis on connecting with the people in our neigbhorhood has never been more pronounced. Yet, the ‘hood has expanded, for every one of us. Not merely the corner drug store, the local school, and the nearby playground make up our neighborhood. And, it’s not just the people from the houses around the block. Of course, our real-time interaction with people extends through digital media so that we are becoming one global community.

My neighborhood now both spans geographic distance (love being only a click away from people far and near) as well as bridges the gaps in time (ok, how cool is it to reconnect with old friends and people from long ago?).

So let’s sing again. But first, who are the people in your “digital neighborhood?” As we think about this, it gives greater meaning to the idea “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Potent words way back when – perhaps even more so now.

Howdy neighbor!

wait 'til next year (again)...

2010-10-06T12:08:00.002-04:00

Baseball's post-season begins today - and of course my beloved Red Sox are already home on winter vacation (can't wait for spring training :). Yet, with the excitement of the playoffs (at least as forwarded by the various sports commentators in their usual pre-game fashion), it's still a great time to be a baseball fan. OK - I'm not truly concerned with the outcome of the LDS, LCS or World Series (well, I can be counted on to root AGAINST the evil Yankees); I am, however, looking forward to watching the games with Deb and the kids, making some fun baseball-related meals, and enjoying the remainder of the season - and holding on to that common boyhood dream of driving in the winning run in the 7th game of the World Series.

So - what are YOUR favorite playoff memories? And who do you think will win this year? C'mon everybody - play ball!

Think visual

2010-09-30T15:19:00.003-04:00

This is one of the coolest pictures I've ever taken. It's from our visit to Saguaro National Park in Tucson this past summer. I love the vibrant colors, the clarity of the butterfly, and the way the photo captures just an instant of nature's beauty. I'm reminded that artistic inspiration (especially for those of us who aren't necessarily artists) comes from every direction.
Feel encouraged to post your favorite photos - so we can share inspiration. I look forward to seeing what you've got!

Turn, turn, turn - turn it up a notch

2010-09-21T13:12:00.003-04:00

The festival of Sukkot will begin in a couple of days. The holiday is called "the time of our rejoicing" - z'man simchateynu. There is perhaps no greater joy in life than the satisfaction we get from good, healthy, strong relationships with loved ones - family and friends (for me, this capacity for deep friendship is what makes life meaningful).

Now that we're through the holy days of Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur, Sukkot gives us the continued chance to reflect on what's most important in our lives - and especially to consider which relatioships need attention or repair.

I encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity to reach out and make improvements in you relationships with other. I'd love to hear about what steps you're taking in this direction.

L'shana tova...Eid Mubarak

2010-09-10T15:03:00.002-04:00

Yesterday, on Rosh HaShanah afternoon, a group of us from Temple made a visit to the local mosque. This year our holiday coincides with the last day of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month centered on fasting, prayer, repentance, and purification. A few weeks ago in a planning meeting, about five of us came up with the idea that we’d like to make outreach to the Muslim community. When I discovered the overlap between our two Holy Days, I also looked up if there are any special customs for the end of Ramadan. As I shared what I found about Iftar (the evening meal that breaks the daily fast during Ramadan) we immediately saw the similarity of eating sweets as a symbol of our hope for goodness in the year ahead. We brainstormed the idea of asking about the idea of Temple members bringing a basket of such goodies to the mosque – we hoped to demonstrate our desire to cultivate a relationship between our congregations.

With the encouragement of the others around the table, I sent a note to the Islamic Society of Michiana, posing our question about a possible visit. I concluded my message: As we look to enter the New Year on the Jewish calendar, with hopes for sweetness and peace, we wish you a season of goodness and blessing. Please accept our best wishes. May this holy season be meaningful. I didn’t really have any idea about what kind of response I’d receive. I got a warm and enthusiastic reply, which included the following: Thank you so much for reaching out to us with your kind wishes. We are very excited and looking forward to the visit of your Temple members. We also want to extend our warm wishes for your Rosh HaShanah. May the New Year be filled with health, happiness, sweet moments, and peace. Needless to say, I was delighted.

Perhaps more than our little discussion group would like to attend? We decided to announce our plans during our Holy Day worship services, opening up the invitation to anyone from Temple who’d like to join us. We arranged to meet at 5:30 in the afternoon to “assemble” our gift baskets, and then caravan to the mosque. I thought it would be great if ten of us came together. Nearly thirty J of us made the outing – a source of genuine pride and satisfaction.

We were welcomed with gracious hospitality – as should always be the case in our human interactions. It was amazing to mix, mingle and share with our Muslim neighbors. And it came as no surprise as we live in a smaller, tight-knit city – that several of us, Jews and Muslims, already knew somebody else: from the neighborhood in which we live, or the local supermarket, seeing one another at the gym, or having sent our children to the same schools. This was a truly uplifting culmination to our celebration of the New Year. What began as a modest outreach effort became something much more. As we continue to strengthen the connection between our Jewish and Muslim communities, I think we have a real chance to create meaningful relationships among the members of both. I look forward to this ongoing opportunity, as we might just make a difference in the world.

Here's wishing you the bluest sky

2010-09-01T13:29:00.001-04:00

The New Year, 5771, begins with the arrival of Rosh HaShanah, next Wednesday evening, September 8. It is a time of reflection and renewal – filled with the possibility of new beginnings. As we look back on the year gone by and ahead to the one just beginning, we have the chance to evaluate what we’ve done, where we’ve been, and who we yet hope to be. It is our chance to establish new goals, to articulate bigger dreams and visions, and make resolutions for what we hope to accomplish.

With a week remaining before the Holy Days begin, I encourage you to make time for intentional, chesbon ha-nefesh (thoughtful self-examination) – to guide your preparation to enter the New Year. After you’ve had a chance to consider and imagine – let me know about your New Year’s resolution(s) for 5771.

Wishing you a shanah tovah u’metukah – a happy and sweet New Year!

2010-08-30T13:19:00.002-04:00

Last fall's class was such a success - building so many bridges - we're doing it again!

Join us to explore Jewish and Catholic perspectives on teshuvah - atonement/repentance/return.

An enthusiastic discussion and dialogue - with no holds barred! So we can really engage one another, learn from one another, and help each other grow!

RSVP - and be with us as we make this fall another meaningful season!!!

ATONEMENT

Jewish & Catholic Perspectives

A Dialogue of Human Experience

Members of Temple Beth-El, Little Flower Catholic Church, and others will dialogue, sharing our vast theological traditions, and moreover, our human experience of atonement in a seminar-type environment.

What is atonement? What does it mean to live in, fall away from, and return to right relationship with God, others, and oneself?

Rabbi Eric J. Siroka and Jay Freel Landry will co-facilitate the sessions. Monday evening and Tuesday morning sessions will have the same focus.

Monday evening at Temple Beth-El starting September 13, 7:00 - 8:45 p.m. Tuesday morning at Little Flower starting September 14, 9:15 – 11:00 a.m.

There are seven sessions with the last sessions on October 25/26.

There is no particular text being used for this seminar series.

A list of books that address the topic will be available at the first sessions.

You are encouraged to read what interests you.

An RSVP is requested for Temple Beth-El (234-4402) and Little Flower (273-9722) members by Sept. 10, so we know how many are coming to each session – please indicate which session you wish to attend (Monday evening or Tuesday morning).

The wider community is requested to register through Forever Learning (282-1901).

2010-08-27T13:34:00.003-04:00

It's that time of year - preparing (as best we can) for the upcoming High Holy Days. Looking forward to the onset of the New Year, so many of us look for direction, inspiration - for this is to be a season of change and renewal.

So late last night, I get an email from Garmin - stating that my GPS has a problem and has been recalled. Send it back immediately for repair - DO NOT use the damaged instrument.

I had to laugh - is there a message in this? Here I am trying to get ready to guide our community through the Days of Awe - looking myself for some guidance and uplift - and I lose the use of my GPS. Kinda funny to think about.

SO - what's your internal GPS? How and where do you find inspiration, guidance, direction? What are the sources of your renewal? And, what are you anticipating in the New Year just ahead?

Just a few more thought here in the middle of Elul.

thinking of Hillel while cleaning the kitchen

2010-08-23T21:41:00.003-04:00

"That which is is hateful to you - do not do to your fellow...this is the whole of Torah...the rest is commentary...go and learn."
So taught the great sage Hillel, with words that have echoed through the ages. My question: what is hateful to YOU, that reminds you how NOT to act toward others? And maybe more importantly: what are you doing to keep learning, growing, and becoming a better version of yourself?
Just a couple thoughts while cleaning up the kitchen...

5770: looking back to move ahead

2010-08-20T13:06:00.004-04:00

This Hebrew month of Elul, the one leading up to the High Holy Days, is meant as a time of introspection and reflection. Before we can truly be ready to welcome the New Year, we owe ourselves the chance to look back – for good or for bad – on the year that was. Once Rosh HaShanah arrives, we can already have done the real tough, sacred work of examining the highlights and disappointments (and especially who we have been) from the year now gone.

When pushed, it’s somewhat easy to focus on the “stuff” for which we feel obligated to atone: our pettiness and envy, perhaps how we’ve hurt or alienated our loved ones, the missed opportunities, and how we’ve failed ourselves…I believe this tendency is why Jewish tradition declares that “for transgressions between a person and God, the Day of Atonement (itself) atones.” Going through the process of cheshbon ha-nefesh (accounting the soul), and coming to terms with one’s own faults and foibles effects teshuvah – repentance and return.

Yet I also like to remember that this is a time to consider, in appropriate context, the good and uplifting events and experiences, the satisfactions and accomplishments we’ve achieved. We keep these things not so we can gloat over ourselves (wouldn’t that be counter to the whole point of the season?J); rather, that we can continue through these significant holy days, to cultivate a true sense of gratitude for all that we have. More so, giving thanks for the blessings in our lives – and appreciating the goodness we know – helps us foster that sense of meaning that so many of us seek.

Psalm 27 exhorts: “Look to Adonai – may your heart be strong and courageous.” I challenge you to join me in finding our strength. Looking back on 5770, what are the great highs and lows you’ve experienced? How have they helped shape your life? What have you done of significance (great or small)? And mostly, what are the cherished parts of your experience that propel you into the coming New Year?

Bis hundert und zwanzig (at least!)

2010-08-16T13:49:00.001-04:00

Deb’s grandma Leah turns 100 (!) in a couple of weeks. This past weekend, we were up in MN with the rest of the family (as well as some relatives from all over the country we didn’t know existed before) to celebrate this amazing milestone. After all the planning, worrying, and anxiety – everything turned out fine (anxiety in our family? What, are you new here?).

I’ve now known Leah for 20 years; we met just as she reached 80. And over this time, I’ve come to know her as a woman who has not merely lived this long – but who has enjoyed and appreciated the many things she’s experienced. She engages you in real conversation about most anything you might think: family and food, movies and music, politics and pop culture. And (unlike some), she’s ALWAYS interested in what others have to say.

For me, though, the most significant thing about grandma is that she has an active, vibrant, and real relationship with my kids, her great-grandchildren. I only knew one of my own grandparents; how cool is it that our 11 year-old son and 9 year-old daughter not only know their great-grandmother (they affectionately call her G.G. Leah J), and can “do stuff” with her too – go out to dinner; play games; tell her about what’s going on in their lives, just as she does for them; even walk around the mall (ok, so even using a walker, grandma’s usually faster than the rest of us, especially getting to a restaurant table!).

A hundred years is certainly nothing to sneeze at; and this 100 is the best thing I’ve ever had the chance to celebrate.

Where YOU matter most

2010-08-02T15:27:00.000-04:00

It’s August – a great time to think about what matters most in life. And don’t forget, what matters most is YOU.
For congregations, this time of year is often (seen by some as) “down time” – you know, that hazy period between the end of springtime activities and the frantic gearing up for the Holy Days, return to Religious School and new programming year that comes with fall. Of course this is not true. Any good (healthy) congregational community is *vibrant* throughout the year. And perhaps this is best demonstrates during those times when the calendar doesn’t seem to be so full. A congregation is not defined by its worship schedule or its educational events. Indeed, these are very important. The vitality of a congregation can truly be reflected in its sense of community (admittedly something difficult to measure). How deeply people feel connected…to what extent their involvement and very presence is valued…if they really feel that “I belong”…THESE are the qualities of a great congregation. In other words, it’s where YOU matter most.
No synagogue (or any institution for that matter) is perfect – doing all the best things in all the rights ways, all the time. Yet most strive, day-by-day, to be worthy of your attention and involvement. And this is hard (and rewarding) work. So I encourage you – whether you’ve shied away from congregational life or if you’re a life-long devotee – to be part of the life of the community. Find the right place for prayer and learning, for networking and friendship – your life will be enriched in a place where YOU matter most.
And if you’re nearby, or when you visit, please join me at Temple Beth-El (www.tbe-sb.org) – an imperfect, loving, caring community, which makes every effort to let you know that YOU matter most.

Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere

2010-07-27T13:06:00.002-04:00

OK - so I basically come from a liberal background that has fostered my support for a variety of "progressive" causes. As an educated contemporary Reform Jew, I am very much aware that this is a key piece of my identity and activity. To my own surprise, my positions and perspective on issues continues to become increasingly progressive. I find this quite interesting.

Now I have no problem with the idea that there are those who hold differing opinions from mine; as a matter of fact, that is of course what makes life interesting. What baffles me is the level of narrow-minded hatred that often emerges from within the right-wing spectrum (of any issue). As if to say "because YOU hold a different view, I have the right to demean your worth as a human being."

And more recently - at least in my experience - these vitriolic attacks are often propped up by unitelligible (in not outright unintelligent) arguments. Don't get me wrong - I'm not looking to live in a world where everyone agrees with *me*. I would appreciate a greater level of respect and openness in civil discourse - in our society, in our political arena, and in our own communities as well. If we can cultivate an atmosphere in which people truly strive for understanding, while protecting and upholding the inherent dignity of those who with whom we disagree, or find different, or are relegated to being "other", we will go a long way toward fulfilling the obligation for tikkun olam - repairing the ills that face our world

I know this is not a new issue, and I'm certainly aware that there are no quick-fixes to such complex, emotionally charged matters. Yet I maintain the hope that in our own day, we will find ways to make this world better, and not worse, for our having been here.

Any great ideas? PLEASE feel encouraged to share.

Bring it on home

2010-07-19T12:04:00.004-04:00

Many of my closest friends and colleagues spend a great deal of their time and energy - throughout the year - in an effort to creat meaningful Jewish experience for our young people. For me, there is no more satisfying opportunity and for youth work than time spent at camp (anyone who knows me is now saying "duh"). With its atmosphere, programming, creative and experimental setting - camp provides the best "laboratory" for the richest of Jewish learning, living and growth. This is true for all who attend and participate, from youngest children to eldest returnees and visitors.

We just came back from two absolutely wonderful weeks at OSRUI (http://www.osrui.org/), and again I am so very thrilled to have had the chance to be part of the faculty - a group of talented, dedicated rabbis, educators and cantors who are inspired in their work to build kehillah (community), to express ruach (spirit) and foster kedoshah (holiness) by drawing deeply and practically on the treasures of our tradition - applying them in meaningful ways that connect with (and stay with) the campers, staff and others who make up camp.

The lasting questions that I have is: how do we maintain the sense of active, engaging spirit that saturates the camp environment? How do those who "go away" for 2, 4, or 8 weeks keep that level of positive energetic Judaism in their daily lives? And more so (perhaps the real kicker) how do we share the wealth - and inject even some of camp's power and potential into our "home" communities and congregations? This has been my personal mission for 30 years - and I revel in this continuing challenge.

How do you sustain the best of your experiences? That is, how do you bring it on home?

Loving camp, again and again

2010-07-08T11:00:00.003-04:00

Here we are, in the middle of our first week at camp - always one of best times of the year. Serving on faculty at OSRUI is a treat - to continue enjoying one of the real favorites of my life - Jewish summer camping. I loved camp as a kid...and now as an adult I can both share that joy with today's campers and staff - and also rely on them to rekindle and strengthen my own delight in being here: living as one community, sharing meals, learning and playing together, and creating life-long bonds that in many ways help shape and define who we are. The list, the memories, the fun and meaningful stories could go on and on...
I hope you'll share how camp has influenced your life - whether in your choice of career, finding your passions, and especially the people who've been added to your world. I'd love to hear.

From fasting to Fast Times

2010-06-29T13:51:00.003-04:00

According to the Hebrew calendar, today is 17 Tamuz 5770 - the date commemorating the breach of Jerusalem's walls three weeks prior to the destruction of the city on Tisha B'av (9 Av). Since the year 70 c.e. (and especially until the Shoah), this was the saddest event in Jewish history, marking the dispersion of the people from their homeland in Israel. Traditionally, this minor holiday has been a fast day, beginning the three week period of mourning leading up to the anniversary of Jerusalem's downfall. It would be observed by fasting and reciting passages lamenting the siege and fall of the city. There are also those who hold that this was the day that Moses broke the original set of tablets.

I look at today very differently, especially this year. On the secular calendar, it is June 29, 2010, twenty years to the day since I met Debra - making this the anniversary of the most significant day in my life. With two decades gone by (!) I can reflect and understand that my life was not only changed in meeting her - but also the journey of continued progress, challenge and blessing was begun then too. Like most of us, I don't express my appreciation enough (or always in the right way :) - yet this is clear - I am so much better for having met Deb, getting married, creating a family, and sharing the ups and downs of career, hobbies, fun and life with her. And, like most of us, I'm still working at becoming the best partner that I can be, and that she deserves. I am truly fortunate for the chance to keep at it.

So what's been most significant day(s) in your life - and how has it changed you?

On the road again...

2010-06-23T01:40:00.004-04:00

We head back to SB from AZ tomorrow. This has been another "vacation to remember" (pics to follow). Once again exploring the desert SW from home base in Anthem, AZ - we've enjoyed Sedona, Taliesin West, the Saguaro National Park (Tucson), the zoo, museums, water parks, great food, glorious sunshine, and even a hot night with Smokin' Joe Kubek and Bnois King. V loved the zoo and Taliesin, Ben enjoyed the Dbacks-Yankees game, Deb and I treated ourselves to a great meal at Barrio Cafe (among all the other stuff). And I'm realizing, each getaway we plan and take, that they're each great trips, adding to the wonderful experiences we create together. I'm already looking forward to figuring out what family outing will come next - whether a jaunt to nearby Chicago, or a road trip cross country to someplace we've never been. This is what life's about.
So now, share YOUR favorite vacation experience or memory - we can add to each other's virtual photo album.
N'siya tova - wishing you safe a successful travels, wherever the road takes you...

Your own deserted island

2010-06-16T09:43:00.003-04:00

We're spending time in the desert southwest, at the oasis in Anthem, AZ provided by Deb's parents. A terrific getaway, with always so much to do and enjoy - and always the advantage of temps in the 100's. While among the cacti and lizards, there's also the great chance to daydream about life (some gurus call this the fulfillment of our human need for periodic refreshment; Jewish tradition reminds us of this idea every week with the concept of Shabbat). So I've been thinking about the old radio DJ question "what three things would you need on a deserted island?" (yes, vacation mode has finally seeped in). OK - they'd usually ask "what three songs", but with an iPod, it seems frivolous.
So for fun - if YOU were stranded on an island, or stuck somewhere remote, or even just off on your own by choice - what three items would you find indispensable? Play along, and have some fun.

The future of Reform?

2010-06-10T16:57:00.004-04:00

Toward the end of my rabbinical school years at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion (HUC-JIR), Dr. Michael Meyer (our eminent professor of history and my thesis adviser) engaged our class in a conversation about the coming "interregnum in the Reform movement." At that time, we knew of the coming retirement of the leaders of the three major branches of the movement: Alexander Schindler from his post as president of the Union of American Hebrew Congregations (now URJ); Fred Gottschalk of HUC-JIR; and Joe Glaser of the Central Conference of American Rabbis (CCAR). Meyer pointed out that this represented a true generational transition of historic proportions (a nearly direct quote), as each of these men were American Reform Rabbis who were born prior to the Shoah. Two (Schindler and Gottschalk) came to the U.S. from Europe. The third, Glaser, was a decorated G.I. who was twice wounded while serving in Europe during the war. Personally and professionally, they witnessed (and were part of) perhaps the greatest time of transformation of the world, and especially of the Jewish community. Their experiences certainly shaped their world-view, and how their significant leadership was crafted.

Dr. Meyer left us with an open-ended question: how will the next generation take shape?

I think again of this notion for two related reasons: this coming July 17th will be somewhat of an "anniversary" for the movement. It was on this date that Israel Jacobson "organized the first Reform temple" in Seesen, Germany (and yes, this is fascinating to those of us who maintain a Rainman-like interest in Reform history). Perhaps a more important related item just emerged today: at the URJ North American Board meeting, currently being held in Brooklyn, Rabbi Eric Yoffie, who has served as Union president for 14 years (as Schindler's successor) announced that he will retire in 2012. He has outlined a bold continuing agenda for the remainder of his term.

These years have been marked by great changes and triumphs in the movement - the URJ, HUC-JIR and CCAR have each experienced leadership transitions and turnover; have endured economic challenges (if not crises); and have faced (along with the rest of the Jewish world) a growing demographic changeover that has disturbed the previous century's status quo.

The next Union president (and leadership team, of course) will undoubtedly have new issues to face - incorporating the latest in organizational methods along with the strength of Jewish tradition. Just yesterday, I wrote about how we cannot afford to evaluate ourselves based on our previous accomplishments; rather, we must ever strive to create new visions even as we re-imagine old ones.

So now I ask - what does the future hold for the Reform movement, and for progressive Judaism? What would you envision? Please share, as the future is in our hands, right now...

Fifteen years and the future is all ours

2010-06-09T13:59:00.005-04:00

Today is the 15^th (!) anniversary of ordination. I was just looking at our class picture (and it’s nice that I’m in touch with nearly everyone in it, to some degree or another) and my s’micha (rabbinical diploma). It’s true that time flies. Or, as my classmate Marc said “has it been that long? It only seems like forever!J” And yes, in some ways it feels like a very long time, and in others, like just the blink of an eye. Of course, I’m prompted to think about what’s happened over these years: having two kids, moving four times, taking on new professional positions, being in and out of touch with friends and family…as well as thinking of the accomplishments I’ve achieved: being involved with hundreds of b’nei mitzvah, funerals, weddings, baby namings, seasons of holy days and religious school (and of course the countless things I wish I’d done, didn’t quite to well, or never got around to…).

On this occasion, even looking back on fifteen (generally very satisfying) years in the rabbinate, I’m pushing myself instead to look forward: as of now, what are my hopes, dreams and visions for tomorrow? Why do I yet want to do, to realize, to become? I think it becomes more challenging to visualize such ambitions as we get further along the path. That’s why it seems so valuable to take time and expend the energy in revitalizing our capacity to imagine possibilities. I kick myself in these moments when I realize that I’ve allowed this childlike sense of wonder and play be masked by the regular “stuff” of life, allowing such hopes and plans to grow dim (I think I’ve just set a new priority for myself for the coming weeks – to really get in touch with my own long-term aspirations).

So share – not the great results that have brought you to this day – rather, what are YOUR goals…or hopes…or dreams…let your imagination go wild…who knows what triumphs we might yet achieve.

Hazon - articulating vision, or, Sacred Stategery :)

2010-06-04T15:20:00.003-04:00

Some of you know that I’ve spent much of the past ten years actively engaged in studying organizational dynamics and leadership development. I have found this to be a fascinating area for learning and growth – personally and professionally – and have enjoyed watching this field begin to blossom especially in the Jewish not-for-profit sector. In becoming familiar with religious and secular materials, I am always looking for new, interesting, exciting approaches toward better synagogue management and operation.

I am DELIGHTED that a new book was published by the Alban Institute press. Sacred Strategies: Transforming Synagogues from Functional to Visionary is the latest in a recent flourishing of titles specifically geared to the Jewish institutional world. I have been anticipating this book since first hearing of the work going into it. (I think there was a change or two from initial publisher, as it’s taken more time than I expected.) Its authors – Isa Aron, Steven M. Cohen, Lawrence A. Hoffman and Ari Y. Kelman – are among the pioneering teachers in applying organizational best practices to the field of congregational transformation; it should be stimulating to learn from their collaboration.

The joint work of these colleagues again speaks to the dictum of the ancient rabbis: hafoch ba v’hafoch ba – “turn it and turn it again” – that there is always something more to be learned, discovered and uncovered in ANY important area of study – when we look at it anew, or with a new perspective. As our congregation has just engaged a new leadership team, I will be interested in looking to this new resource for renewed inspiration in our sacred work together.

(For more about this publication, visit http://alban.org/bookdetails.aspx?id=9036)

What’s your "sacred strategy?" - what's inspired your passion recently? Would love to know…

A classic reprint! Miles Davis, human brotherhood, and my Jewish spirit

2010-05-26T08:05:00.004-04:00

(Please note - I originally wrote this piece four years ago, in celebration of Miles' 80th birthday. I post it here in honor of his ongoing legacy)

Today marks the 84th anniversary of the birth of Miles Davis - one of the most important figures in modern music and culture. Along the path of life, we find many different influences, and Miles ranks as one of my favorite artists, and a source of great interest and inspiration.
I recall fondly my time as the rabbinic intern at the Hillel Jewish Student Center at the University of Cincinnati, during my studies at HUC-JIR. We had the great fortune to engage in leadership development along with the staff of the African-American Cultural Center on campus. One exercise we conducted was called "cultural sharing" - for which each participant had been asked to bring an item of significant personal or family identity from home, and be willing to explain why the object was meaningful. Someone had a piece of art...someone had a special book....another a family photo...with me, I had the mezzuzah given to us by Debra's congregation in honor of our wedding.
One colleague from the African-American center showed up with Miles' album "Kind of Blue" (a classic, groundbreaking work that still enriches the musical imagination). I quietly asked if he'd borrowed it from my collection. It immediately fostered a genuine bond between us, where none had been before. This experience culminated in our agencies co-sponsoring an art exhibit showing the great migration of Jews from Ethiopia to Israel during the 80's and 90's. Staring at one of the magnificent oversized photographs of a wise looking older tribesman, the same colleague said to me "you know what's great about this picture? I can't tell if it's your cousin or mine." Both of us then realizing how interconnected we were as human beings.
To me, this remains the message of art, and especially music - that the richness of life unites us as a human family, even while offering us the sacred, dignified opportunity to embrace what makes us unique, and even different. Perhaps this is what Jewish tradition teaches us with the term b'tzelem elohim - that each of us is created, modeled after the Divine.
And so, as I choose to celebrate this Miles Davis anniversary - I hope we will all continue to find enrichment, encouragement and blessing in the many various pieces of life that we enjoy - from music and art to food and fine wine, and especially in the loving embrace of family and friends who share with us along life's path.

Happy birthday Miles...

30 Years of Maximum R&B

2010-05-20T17:17:00.005-04:00

This is a big week: we observed the festival of Shavuot, which celebrates the giving of Torah at Mt. Sinai; one of my favorite all-time personal muses, Pete Townshend, turned 65 (!); and this coming Shabbat will be the 30^th anniversary of my becoming a Bar Mitzvah. It’s been three decades since I was called to the Torah on Shabbat Naso – to read the portion which includes the famous “Priestly Benediction” – the three-part offering by the priests through which God bestowed divine blessing upon the people:

May Adonai bless you and protect you!

May Adonai shine divine kindness and grace upon you!
May Adonai be present with you, and grant you peace!

(I happen to be a sucker for the following line: “Thus they shall place My name upon the people of Israel, and I will bless them.”)

Anyone familiar with Jewish practice knows that we use this divine charge as a blessing throughout the life-cycle: at b’rit milah and baby naming, Consecration of new students, b’nei mitzvah, weddings, anniversaries…all the significant moments of celebration are highlighted with these words. I have been privileged now for 15 years in the congregational rabbinate to recite these lines innumerable times – and each time I recite these lines, I introduce them by reminding those present that it is my honor to do so on behalf of our sacred tradition and the gathered assembly (it is still God who bestows blessings – no matter how hip, savvy, or well-dressed a modern clergy person might beJ).

Looking back thirty years – I do recall studying this portion and its significance with my mentor (thank you Rabbi Henry A. Zoob, my beloved teacher and rabbi emeritus of Temple Beth David in Westwood, MA). Yet I had no idea then that this simple set of three phrases would become such a valuable instrument in my professional tool kit. What is it that I do remember from that milestone? Well of course the gathering of family and friends remains foremost in my mind. I think of our dear friends from NY arriving late for the celebration, when we didn’t think they’d be able to attend at all (Sarah D., I think I still deserve a piece of chocolate cake). And most specially, I recall on that Wednesday, my mother asking me for $2. When I asked “what for”, she said “never mind, just pay attention.” I learned on Friday evening that my modest contribution had enabled me to sponsor the flowers decorating the sanctuary in honor of my grandmother. Grandma and I were both delighted to hear it announced.

And perhaps what’s the most significant piece of learning that sticks with me? I appreciate the milestone of Bar Mitzvah for what is was (and is) supposed to be: not some sort of hocus-pocus-coming-of-age-ceremony for a kid who didn’t even know what that saying means. Truly, I know that gathering together on May 24, 1980 (corresponding to the Hebrew date 9 Sivan 5740) was but one of MANY such intentional, happy, sacred occasions on which the power of Judaism to shape and enhance my life has been clearly evident.

I’ve certainly grown and changed and hopefully improved since that time. And it will only be about another year-and-a-half before a Bar Mitzvah picture of my son gets placed beside the one of my dad. Thankfully it’s still amazing to look in the mirror and see the same kid looking back, refusing to get old.

Our stories, their stories - the Immigrant Song, no matter when, the Song Remains the Same

2010-05-16T22:24:00.003-04:00

Shavuot, which is Hebrew for “weeks”, is one of the three major pilgrimage occasions that arose in our ancient tradition. Along with Sukkot and Passover, Shavuot was one of the holidays for which our Israelite ancestors traveled to Jerusalem to offer sacrifices at the Temple. Unfortunately, Shavuot seems to get minimal attention because of its proximity to the end of the school year and summer vacations. However, Shavuot has MAJOR importance thematically, as it truly celebrates our greatest gift – the Torah.

“Torah,” of course, is more than the scroll with the Five Books of Moses; it represents all learning. And so Shavuot takes on the significant position of being a celebration of the Jewish commitment to the life-long opportunity to study and grow.

For three years now, my congregation (Temple Beth-El, South Bend, IN – www.tbe-sb.org) has used the occasion of Shavuot to engage in learning around issues of social justice. We will do so again this year. On the eve of Shavuot, this Tuesday May 18^th we will explore our Michiana Jewish roots knowing that We Were Strangers Too (for more on this program, see:

http://advocacy.hias.org/NetCommunity/Page.aspx?pid=276

Our study opportunity (tikkun leyl Shavuot) will ask:

How does our experience as an immigrant people inform our understanding of today's immigrant experience?
What are some of the issues involved in today’s policy debate over immigration reform?

(Believe it or not, we brainstormed this program prior to the latest explosion of related stories in the news.)

In addition to our festival evening service, it is traditional to enjoy a dairy meal (ok, we’re also making tradition fit the occasion – as the dinner will feature dairy Mexican foods prepared by members of one of the local churches, from whose members we will hear contemporary stories of immigration). Making the connection between our stories (how well we know that we Jews are all immigrants, many times over) and the concerns that affect more recent immigrants – our program will culminate by exploring current issues for our own consideration, explanation, and possible advocacy. I’m looking forward to a fascinating evening.

So – what are you doing to learn and grow? What issues or concerns do you have about today’s world? What might you be doing to celebrate the gift of Torah? As our ancient sages taught: turn it, and turn it again – for everything is in it.

CHAG SAMEYACH – wishing you a joyous and meaningful festival.

2010-05-11T14:57:00.003-04:00

I had the wonderful opportunity yesterday (Monday, May 10) to attend a symposium at the University of Notre Dame marking the publication of a festschrift in memory of Rabbi Michael Signer. This new book, Transforming Relations: Essays on Jews and Christians throughout History in honor of Michael A. Signer, is a loving testament to the life’s work and passion of a remarkable man. The volume was edited by Franklin Harkin, one of his former students, who helped coordinate the program. As made evident through the day’s presentations, anyone who was ever one of Michael’s students remained in his sphere, as he took special interest in his students’ accomplishments, careers and lives well after leaving the classroom.

The event itself was marvelous: Attendees were treated to presentations by several of Michael’s colleagues and students. The words dialogue and relationship emerged repeatedly in describing his work and perspective about the world. Summing it up beautifully, Rabbi David Ellenson said “Michael’s passion was to introduce friends to friends.” All who knew him recognized this sweet truth. The day was truly a celebration of his dynamic career – in both academia and the world of social justice, activity and education that stemmed from the textual tradition he so loved. Most fitting, several of the Signers’ dearest friends were present to honor him as well. It was moving to witness their affection and support for Michael’s beloved Betty throughout the program as well.

After serving more than 15 years on the faculty of HUC-JIR, Michael held the Abrams Chair of Jewish Thought and Culture at Notre Dame from 1992 until his untimely death in January 2009. He was also deeply involved in the wider Jewish world, and was of course especially engaged as a leader in interfaith dialogue. Michael served on numerous committees and commissions that sought such understanding. Our world is better for his effort. Michael was teacher, mentor, colleague and friend to so many during his life, and it is already clear that his profound and broad influence will carry on for many years to come.

Ain't Talkin' 'Bout Love (and then again...)

2010-05-07T15:22:00.004-04:00

Yesterday was pretty cool. I was reminded of the power of being linked to other human beings. It was my birthday – and I was delighted to receive (literally) hundreds of warm, sweet, kind birthday greetings. Some messages were by phone, some by email, quite a few via Twitter, FaceBook, and text. Heck, I even got a bunch of well wishes in person (what a novel ideaJ). I was touched by each one of them, and tried to respond to each sender individually. Truly, I feel very much loved. And there’s more. Though this could be another post about the effective tool of social network media (yes, I do feel that I’m basically in touch with virtually every person I’ve ever known), it really isn’t. What I’m really thinking about goes much deeper. Yesterday’s experience was a reminder about the sanctity of CONNECTEDNESS.

Without sounding too hokey – I have come to understand that connectedness is the root (and end result) of the religious quest. I am profoundly moved by a passage in Art Green’s masterful new book Radical Judaism, Rethinking God & Tradition:

The intimations of holiness I encounter in both time and space serve as windows through which I catch brief glimpses of an underlying cosmic unity, insights into a deeper truth about being…All of existence is holy. Every creature, whether alive and sensate or “inanimate,” is nothing other than the sacred presence of Y-H-W-H, hidden and revealed through yet another of its endless masks. No creature is truly separate from my own self, since I too am but one of the masks of God. My “self” is nothing other than a manifestation of the single Self of being, having ever so temporarily arranged its molecules in a pattern that allows for this particular manifestation. My love and reverence for all creatures, including all the human and nonhuman others I encounter, derives from the awareness that we are all one in Y-H-W-H. This awareness calls upon me to know and to care for those others, as I partake in and celebrate the diversity though which our shared inner Self becomes present in the world.

Beyond the possibility of being connected with all around us – by definition we are so interrelated. Our sacred task is not so much to create such connections, more so to recognize and cultivate these relationships. Almost funny how a few voice mails, electronic messages, and good ol’ Hallmark greeting cards could remind me of something so meaningful: working on our sacred connectedness to one another, we engage our potential to animate the divine in every other we meet. Martin Buber said “The world is not comprehensible, but it is embraceable: through the embracing of one of its beings;” and further, “When two people relate to each other authentically and humanly, God is the electricity that surges between them.” I am fortunate to experience that surge in my encounters; may we be blessed to generate such energy all along the path of our lives.

Not everybody is a critic; but EVERYONEis an artist

2010-04-30T16:52:00.003-04:00

Okay - it's April 30th, the end of the month. At the beginning of this month, I claimed that "jazz is Jewish" and blogged about the Smithsonian's declaration of April as "Jazz Appreciation Month". I still love all these thoughts (as a matter of fact, I'm even more convinced now of the Jewish-jazz interrelation).

Yesterday, a friend posted a question: "what are you going to do to make the rest of this month count?" That's a question we should ask ourselves not just toward the end of the month - also each day, week, season and year. By prompting ourselves to make each moment count - this is how we might live meaningfully. Even asking the question continues to be a step in the right direction.

Back to jazz (as usual) - the uniquely American art form - structure and improvisation, a spectrum of styles, differing instrumentations - it's all good. And, what makes a piece grand is the contribution of all the players involved. Perhaps we're not all jazz musicians - yet we all have artistic, necessary contributions to make to the musical piece that is life. Each of us has such gifts; Cultivating and employing these talents allows us to fulfill the idea of being God's partner in the ongoing work of creation. So now I ask - what's YOUR artistic talent; what is it that YOU contribute to the symphony of our lives?

Let me know your thoughts - and let us inspire and encourage one another to improve our world and improve ourselves through the offerings we bring.

Happy is the generation where big listens to little

2010-04-23T17:36:00.001-04:00

This morning, Ben came downstairs ready to leave for school, dressed in all black - black shirt, black shoes, the whole thing. I asked "what's with the outfit?" He responded "it's for blackout day, one of our spirit days" (one day each month, the school conducts a "spirit day", you know, wearing the school logo, a particular color, pajamas, crazy socks, whatever). "So what do you do for spirit day?" I went on. "Well, you dress up in outfit of the day, and if you want, you bring in a dollar for the charity we're supporting - like the food pantry, or some other cause. Today we're supporting Reins of Life (ok, I've got to admit, I had to look it up for a reminder. "Reins of Life" is a local organization here in South Bend that provides therapeutic horseback riding. For more on this wonderful outfit, please visit www.reinsoflife.org).

"So Ben, what does Reins of Life do?" "Well, they help out people through horseback riding." "What people do they help?" I asked, truly interested in the answer. "People with disabilities, children and adults." "Wow," I said, "that's neat." "Yeah dad, it's neat that we get to support them too."

Aha - game over, day made. What a great feeling to start the day knowing my kid "gets it". That being fortunate over all - healthy, not lacking anything essential - he knows his "job" is to help others who are in need in some way. I asked him one final question: "do you feel good helping others?" "Sure, I feel good helping - but more important, it's tzedakah - the right thing to do."

One day, I hope to live up the standard he sets.

Sacred memory urges us to act forward

2010-04-19T15:25:00.000-04:00

Today is both Yom HaZikaron as well as the anniversary of the Oklahoma City bombing. On such a day, all good people should join together to prevent atrocities from happening to our society - from within or without. Again, a great potential threat to the safety and security of our world is the possibility of a nuclear-armed Iran (not to mention Pakistan, etc.). Join with NoNukesForIran to lobby our legislators to take the strongest measures against such a thing - for us and our future.

The picture here is our NoNukesForIran banner now proudly displayed outside our building (we finally moved it from our entry foyer, now the weather is cooperating :).

Do your part - go to www.nonukesforiran.org and sign the petition. Best wishes for health and peace in this spring season...

butterflies and brakhot - what do we learn? who teaches us?

2010-04-15T18:44:00.002-04:00

Somehow this butterfly got into our screened-in porch today. When Vered came home from school, she pointed it out to me. Wow - first I wondered how it got in. Then we just gazed at how cool it looks. A momentary, beautiful distraction from the "busy-ness" of the day. How often we let these moments get away from us - and how often we fail to appreciate the good stuff of life when we have it...

Today, I learned of the passing last week of Ellis Rivkin, long-time professor of history at HUC-JIR, and truly a pioneer in his field (well, he was 92!). It seems that every few months, we hear of the death of one of the luminaries of the previous generation - one of our beloved teachers, or elected officials, or cultural icons. And particularly in the case of our teachers and mentors, it's at these times that we reflect on how much they brougth to our lives, or influenced the path we've taken. Why then is it so easy for us to take these special people for granted while we still have the chance to express our gratitude to them (that is, to share our appreciation to our teachers while they're still around!).

So today I ask you: who's among your favorite, greatest, most influential teachers? Let me know, as I'm interested; but more - let THEM know. I bet it will be a butterfly moment.

100 years is nothing to sneeze at

2010-04-09T14:29:00.000-04:00

L’DOR VADOR NAGID GODLECHA – “To all generations we will declare Your greatness, and for all eternity proclaim Your holiness. Your praise, O God, shall never depart from our lips.”

From the liturgy, we get this great tagline – l’dor vador (“from generation to generation”) which has become widely used in Jewish circles to designate, describe, and even define the significance of transmitting tradition from one generation to the next. It’s been used to underscore fundraising efforts; to speak of creating programmatic and institutional legacies; and yes, this phrase is even employed to assuage the guilt of disinterested adults who feel they are “forced” to expend time and energy providing Jewish experience for their children in order to please or appease their aging parents (ugh, this is certainly a challenge in our society).

I feel the best claim of this term (and this concept) is when we simply appreciate the magic of the stories that older people share with their children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren. And yes, in today’s world, when so many of us have faced our loved ones being saddled with various degrees of dementia, how precious it is for us to embrace and cherish the stories that are able to be handed down.

So here’s a great one, in my eyes: this week, we were up in Minneapolis visiting Deb’s family. One of the highlights, of course, is spending time with her grandmother, who will turn 100 (!) this coming September. Our children, who are now 11 and 8, have a wonderful relationship with their great-grandmother (whom they affectionately call G.G. Leah). We were going out to dinner a few nights ago, and as is usually the case, we end up asking her questions about her childhood, and the days before any of us (including my in-laws) were born. Jim, my father-in-law, asked “mom, what about silent movies?” To which she responded “oh, I remember going to see Birth of a Nation…”

BIRTH OF A NATION?!?!?! I said to myself, as my jaw hit the floor of the van. Yes, Birth of a Nation, the D.W. Griffith classic from 1915, one of the first feature-length films, which was heralded in its time (and ever since) for innovations in cinematography. (Oh, let me repeat – 1915!!!).

Wow – as Grandma Leah continued telling of her early movie-going experiences, I could only sit back and reflect “this lady’s seen it all.” She’s witnessed the emergence of the automobile as central to our society; airline flight; radio and TV; all the various wars and conflicts of our time; the great achievements in science, technology and culture; and the struggles regarding child labor, education, civil rights, the women’s movement and more. And this is without even mentioning the revolution brought to us through computers and the internet. I hope the kids were listening, even somewhat as interested as I was.

It really is a gift to hear such stories. When we listen and learn from them, these accounts become part of our story – it’s as if we can extend our own lifetime back into them, and even such things that we didn’t know or see personally enrich us as well. For Grandma Leah, though her birthday is a few month away: ad me'ah v'esrim - may you be strong at least to 120!

So next time your favorite (fill in the blank with that older relative who loves to talk) starts up with one of those time-worn tales, sit back, listen and enjoy. You too will be blessed, l’dor vador, from one generation to the next.

Got a great anecdote from an older relative? Please share, we’d love to hear.

2010-04-01T11:23:00.000-04:00

Jazz is Jewish. I’m convinced. With its defining motif of improvisation over set melody, jazz represents the dynamic tensions that underlie Judaism: keva vs. kavannah – the standard liturgy of prayer and the intentionality and baggage that each worshipper brings to it; sacred scripture and the midrashic interpretation that has enriched it throughout the ages; halakhah (“ritual law”) and its ever-emerging implementation in practice. All these demonstrate the inventiveness and creativity that have been inherent in Judaism through the ages.

The seasons and their holidays also illustrate this imaginative feature of Jewish tradition. From the weekly gift of Shabbat to the pilgrimage festivals to the way which times of year are marked in the prayer book, we continue to evolve, so that Jewish living remains vibrant and meaningful, its continually refreshed approaches responsive to the times while maintaining the richness of time-honored values and teachings. Take the Passover seder, for example, perhaps the greatest instance of tradition augmented by newness in every age. That is, the greatest instance of Jewish jazz (for more on the specifics of Passover creativity, see the previous post).

It seems timely and appropriate that right now, during chol ha-mo’ed pesach, the intermediary days of Passover, as winter turns to spring (as if on cue here in N. Indiana), as March turns to April, we are treated to the launch of Jazz Appreciation Month (for more, go to http://www.smithsonianjazz.org/jam/jam_start.asp or http://www.apassion4jazz.net/jam.html). How wonderful – a whole month dedicated to appreciating this uniquely American art form that draws its inspiration (at least as I’m arguing) in part from the depth of Judaism.

So what I’d like to know as we enjoy the true coming of spring: what’s the greatest, most influential, most meaningful, or simply COOLEST innovation you’ve witnessed in religious practice, in society or politics, or in how we live our lives. While you’re at it, why don’t you share your favorite jazz artist, album or performance. And let’s keep the jazz going…

V’higad’ta l’vincha – the original social network theory

2010-03-26T13:52:00.000-04:00

A few of my friends and colleagues have been conducting a great project, called Tweet the Exodus. Assigned to represent various characters or groups from the Exodus from Egypt, they have been using Twitter to tell the story in preparation for this year’s celebration of Passover (beginning this coming Monday evening, March 29). It’s been a fun, enjoyable and witty program to follow. And, it’s received great attention, even being covered in the Wall Street Journal and on NPR’s Morning Edition. I am delighted and proud that these friends are doing such interesting work (you can follow the remaining process via Twitter @TweetTheExodus).

Some have praised this effort as a great innovation: that is, applying social network media as a tool for transmitting tradition in a new or creative manner. I actually see this a bit differently. I would suggest that Tweet the Exodus is a continuation: the use of new media to tell the tale of the Exodus is an extension of what’s been pedagogical intent of celebrating Passover all along. The Torah states v’higad’ta l’vincha – “you shall explain to your child on that day, ‘It is because of what the Eternal did for me when I went free from Egypt.’” From the outset, we are commanded to personalize and contextualize the Passover story. It has great meaning to us – not merely historically – yet rather individually. It is up to us to recognize the significance of the power of liberation, and what it means in our own lives. We further its importance as we continue to convey the message to every next generation.

In this way, Passover itself is the original social network theory. From admitting “my father was a fugitive Aramean” (Deuteronomy 26:5) to the Talmudic invention of the Four Questions (BT Pesahim 115b); from opening the door for Elijah to the addition of an orange on the Seder plate: Passover is the instance par excellence of our sacred midrashic endeavor. To incorporate new elements, to create new traditions, to recast and reinvent parts of the tradition – in order to fulfill the mitzvah of making Passover real, while connecting genuinely with others.

It is no coincidence that Passover – with its great multi-media Seder (every one of our physical and emotional senses are engaged) – is easily the most widely-observed holiday for American Jews. Sure, we could argue that this is because it is truly a home-based celebration (and certainly it’s easier to handle being with our crazy relatives than to manage the baggage of attending synagogue, especially for those most precariously connected to formal Jewish life). More so, I deeply believe it is because of the potent theme (freedom demands our empathy for the condition of others) which is delivered in such a powerful, multivalent way.

Approaching Passover has been enhanced by the creative people behind Tweet the Exodus. May we each find new and renewing ways to declare the spiritual promise of the holiday: this year we are here, next year in Jerusalem; this year we are all bondsmen, next year may all Tweet free!

Chag sameyach – wishing you a spirited, engaging, uplifting Passover!

(and, follow me @jazzrabbi too)

March Madness - seasons change (and so do I?)

2010-03-18T08:39:00.000-04:00

Some simple thoughts on the time of year: It's March Madness. For some, it means college basketball tournaments (and figuring out your bracketology :). For others, the mad dash to "get ready" for Passover...whatever that means (as I learned a long time ago, the various holidays don't "come early" or "come late", it's rather that we're never quite prepared for them - and perhaps that's one of the strengths and gifts of holiday observance - that in the end, we have to be willing to give up a little control and roll with the flow of time). And, for all of us, this March Madness signifies the changing of season from winter toward spring: the return of warmer weather (especially beloved by those of us who have been blasted by ice and snow), fixing up the yard and outside of our homes, and even the idea of cleaning out/organizing the garage (okay - my spouse's daily prayer). From the NCAA tourney to Passover to the garage to our spirits - it's all about "spring cleaning"...
So - what's YOUR March Madness? How do you welcome spring? What's your favorite (or funniest) Passover memory? And more so, to what do you look forward most as the season changes? Would love to know...

I hate to fly, but...

2010-03-12T16:13:00.000-05:00

I just got home last night after a attending a wonderful convention (CCAR 2010, San Francisco). My travel was hampered on both the flight TO the event, and returning: I was certainly thrilled to spend an unwarranted 6 hour layover in Detroit en route to California. Thankfully, I was able to enjoy a nice lunch and read a fun (if preposterous) new book titled Abraham Lincoln, Vampire Hunter (I kid you not). And then, on the return trip, my short flight from CVG (as I was reminded by friends, the “Holy City” – likely due to Graeter’s and Skyline) to SBN was riddled with non-stop turbulence – like spending a half hour inside a milkshake machine.

Still, all in all, it was a terrific week, perhaps in spite of the lousy travel, and maybe even because of it. How so? We all know that sometimes (more like lots of the time) we have to endure challenges and difficulties in order to experience the enjoyable and meaningful stuff of life. Zillions of examples might come to mind: working hard to train for a favorite athletic event; the seemingly unrewarding practice in music, art, or whatever your activity of choice; and surely, how often we feel that we waste so much time in “unrelated” coursework when pursuing our educational goals.

At one of our sessions, we were taught of the importance (not merely the necessity) of all the regular, mundane, even challenging and distasteful things we do so that we can get to the more significant items on our agenda. In speaking with our entire gathering about the classic phrases “I-It” and “I-Thou”, Rabbi David Ellenson (passionate and articulate teacher, president of HUC-JIR) reminded us of Buber’s insight – that in all relationships, we tend to move from the first (“I-It” is when we view something/someone as an object, an “it”) toward the second (when we recognize people for their intrinsic and undeniable value, as a “someone”, or “Thou”). And of course, some things, like schedules and meetings, office supplies, utilities, etc.) by definition remain in the realm of “it”. It is necessary to handle all these seemingly trivial, unimportant matters with great care, efficiency and diligence, as this “low hanging fruit” is like a support system for the juicier, meaningful, important parts of our agenda – and that is, of course, dealing with people: spending time with our loved ones and friends, reminiscing about wonderful times, and creating new memories together.

This idea is very Jewish to me. As Rabbi Ellenson spoke, I could only think of the classic Rabbinic teaching eyn kemach, eyn torah – “without sustenance, there is no Torah.” Usually these words describe the balance between funding and what it provides – the teaching, education, programming and activities that a community conducts. Here, I see this phrase reminding us of the necessary relationship between the mundane and boring things I’ve described, and how they allow us to maintain our continued work cultivating the important relationships in our lives. It was another “aha” moment for me…

So, I do hate to fly – but it was totally worth it – for the learning I took away from our convention; for the time to catch up with colleagues and friends, old and new; and especially for the sacred chance to see a couple dear friends, totally unexpectedly, for far too long. In the end, a long delay and a bumpy ride can erase and mend 25 years. Can’t wait for my next flight…

Looking forward, looking back - CCAR 2010

2010-03-04T15:29:00.000-05:00

I’m starting to gear up to go to San Francisco for the annual convention of the Central Conference of American Rabbis (CCAR). One of my favorite yearly outings is this opportunity to spend several days with a range of my Reform rabbinical colleagues – updating one another on trends in Jewish life, engaging together in study with leading scholars, hearing from a variety of interesting and important public figures…and mostly, the wonderful (and too seldom) chance to catch up with long-time dear friends in person.

(I’ve been very fortunate that I’ve been able to attend this convention more years than not during my years in the rabbinate.)

And now – as I think of what to pack (heck – SF’s gotta be warmer than South Bend!), and take care of the many different things I need to finish up before leaving – I wonder as I always do: what will be the “feel” of the convention this year? In my experience, it’s usually been a very upbeat gathering – participants joining together for that periodically-needed “recharge” of their batteries – we all conduct very busy, sometimes exhausting, professional lives, and sometimes neglect our personal needs. Every CCAR has its flavor – due to what’s going on in the world, the Reform movement, and in popular culture. And this year will of course be no different, especially for our ongoing concern about the economy, health care, and the ever present tension between “tradition” and “change” that animates our conversations about nearly everything in life.

Right now, I’m not even certain who among my friends and colleagues will be attending (OK, I’ve heard from some). I’m looking forward to connecting with them – as well as meeting up with some new ones too. For my ordination classmates, it’s a somewhat of a kick in the pants, as we approach our 15^th anniversary (sure, we celebrate the longevity of those who’ve been out in the field longer, even much longer; and now 15 years is nothing to take for granted).

For everyone going to SF – I hope your travel is easy, your airline connections smooth, and that we are blessed with a great experience – to laugh, learn, love and enjoy. N’siya tova – safe journeys!

Social justice, stuck @ BWI, #brickner

2010-02-25T19:18:00.000-05:00

Wow! It’s been an exciting few days at the Brickner Rabbinic Seminar. Sponsored by the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism, along with CLAL (the National Jewish Center for Learning and Leadership), the seminar kicked off a year-plus program of study, engagement and practical application for a group of 18 rabbinic fellows dedicated to social justice advocacy (for more info about the program, visit www.rac.org/brickner). I am proud and privileged to be one of the participants selected for this exciting endeavor.

For four days, we learned together with some of the great social justice experts and practitioners from the Reform movement and the broader Jewish world. We looked at a range of topics – from community organizing to lobbying skills – with a specific eye on methodology for excavating our sacred text and tradition to give voice to all sides of issues to strengthen our positions about them. Initially, I understand one of the goals of our work to be sharpening our tool kit in working with people – constituents, politicians, even adversaries – to build respectful coalitions in addressing matter of social concern. Of course the strength that our group brings to the task is the specific mindset of being rabbis, mining the richness of Jewish heritage in crafting serious conversations about such topics.

So here I sit at BWI airport, delayed on my way home, having just the initial chance to reflect on the week’s events. First and foremost, I am delighted to have such a wonderful, diverse, intelligent and dedicated group of colleagues as my chevra on this journey. They have already made the process more than worthwhile. And a couple of key teachings have already emerged: “power is a person’s interest in the interest of others”; “religion should never be used to coerce political action”; and “sacredness is found in the web of relationships.”

For now, I’m going to try to catch a flight home. I’d love to hear your reflections. This way, you can help make my journey even richer.

Sacred is as sacred does

2010-02-19T17:06:00.000-05:00

A. GIFTS FROM THE HEART (or, “SHOW ME THE MONEY”)

This week’s Torah portion, Terumah, we read about the importance of voluntary contributions when fundraising on behalf of a community:

The Lord spoke to Moses, saying: Tell the Israelite people to bring Me gifts; you shall accept gifts for Me from every person whose heart so moves him (emphasis mine). And these are the gifts that you shall accept from them...(Exodus 25:1-3).

Throughout the ages, this has been a tricky subject – the balance between awaiting free-will offerings for a cause, and “gently reminding” people of their compulsory responsbility to financially support the community’s endeavors. Yet there does seem to be a qualitative difference between the two. Rabbi Lawrence Kushner teaches:

We are measured not so much by what we buy, but by what we give. The main obstacle to generosity is forgetting where our money came from. I do not mean who wrote the checks, paid your wages, printed the currency, or even how we earned it. I mean by what combination of skill, luck, grace, and blessing from on High have we wound up with this money in our hands. Where did it come from; how did we really get it? When asked this way, only one thing is clear: We do not own what we possess. Like land, which belongs to God, we are stewards but never owners. And if we remember that all our possessions are loaned to us on trust, then we can be satisfied with much less.

After all, when do we have enough? Wealth cannot be measured in absolute dollars. It is the highly subjective sensation of having more than enough, so much that there is money to give away. For this reason, wealth is a function of generosity: The more you give, the richer you feel (The Book of Words, p. 75-76).

B. “IF YOU BUILD IT, HE WILL COME”

And this first ask from God is for nothing short of the construction of the wilderness sanctuary – that is, the first synagogue building campaign! The text clearly states:

And let them make Me a sanctuary that I may dwell among them (25:8).

First give willingly, now build the sanctuary – then what? Rabbi Tarfon said:

The Holy One did not cause His Presence to dwell among the Israel until they did some work, for scripture says, “And let them make Me a sanctuary that [then] I may dwell among them” (Avot de Rabi Natan 11).

OK – so the whole point of the exercise is to create a space for God. Well, not really – God doesn’t seem to need a roof or walls, or fancy upholstery. Perhaps, however, we do. More than “creating a space for God,” we are striving to create space for God in our lives. It’s as if Torah is reminding us that God is found – not in the sanctuary – and rather in our work together to create sacred space. When we join together for sacred purpose, whatever that effort is, those are the times when we cause God’s presence to be felt among us.

So tell me – what have you done lately to create sacred space? And what exactly is your idea of sanctuary – a holy place? How have you joined with others to make God’s presence known? Hope you’ll share your thoughts – and enjoy the sanctuary you create.

The Jewish Mardi Gras? BE HAPPY - IT'S ADAR!

2010-02-17T20:14:00.000-05:00

According to the Hebrew calendar, we are now in the month of Adar. This month begins my favorite time of the year. It is during this month that we celebrate the holiday of Purim, perhaps the most fun and festive occasion in the Jewish year. Purim is filled with frivolity and joy, and this is one of the happiest (and definitely silliest) seasons of our religious tradition. Purim is filled with frivolity and joy, and this is among the happiest – and definitely silliest – seasons of our religious tradition.
With the coming of spring we enjoy the returning promise of warmth and milder weather, outdoor activities, and the eventual blossoming of nature. It is also one of the happiest times of the Jewish year.
This year, Purim will be celebrated on February 28. It is customary to include Purim songs and stories, as well as readings from the megillah, the Biblical book of Esther. Of course, we are encouraged to dress up in costume - as a character from the Purim story, from Jewish history, or anything else that strikes you might choose. Purim is the occasion, after the long winter, for us to “let loose” and enjoy the goodness of life that the season represents. How appropriate to know that this accompanies our transition from winter to spring.
As I hope you know, one of the most treasured traditions of Purim is that of mishloach manot (or sh’lach mones in Yiddish) – the sending of gifts. The holiday provides a simple reminder of the Jewish value and priority of generosity. I hope that every one of us will make a special effort to do at least one (more) act of such generosity and kindness for the less fortunate during this month of Adar. Then this season of Purim will truly be a joyous one for the people whose lives we touch. Share your Purim memories and ideas here – and let’s celebrate a season of goodness together…
Enjoy!

Teens, social justice and a message for Iran

2010-02-11T17:44:00.000-05:00

A few weeks back, Nancy – a friend from camp and college, contacted me. She asked “hey Eric, do you know any rabbis I can talk to?” At first, of course, I thought this was pretty funny (being a rabbi myself, you know). “Sure,” I responded, “what’s up?” What great satisfaction it was as Nancy proceeded to tell me about a new political action cause that was about to be launched (my friend had been a leading campus activist during our college days at American U. in DC). This effort, called No Nukes for Iran (www.nonukesforiran.org) is promoting education and advocacy against proliferation, specifically regarding the potential threat of a nuclear-armed Iran – perhaps the greatest threat to peace and stability in our world, a monumental issue to be sure!

Even more exciting, this effort was initiated by a group of concerned teenagers (Nancy’s daughter among them). For me – this worthy cause is two-fold: one, addressing the issue itself – preventing a nuclear Iran; two, it is a relevant exercise engaging young people in using political activism as a tool of social justice. I learned from our initial conversation that the teens had already designed a logo (to be used on promotional materials, posters, banners, pins, magnets, etc.); had lobbied with legislators in their home state (NJ); had presented at the Jewish Federation’s “Super Sunday”; and even had the chance to meet with Michael Oren, Israel’s Ambassador to the U.S. As we spoke, I went to the group’s blog (which you can access via the website). In addition to great pictures, the mission statement from its website struck me:

NO NUKES FOR IRAN is a Teen Advocacy Program that is dedicated to raising awareness about the possibility of a nuclear Iran. We believe that a nuclear Iran poses an imminent threat for the United States and the World. We believe that by educating our peers, adults, and world leaders that we can successfully deter Iran from having nuclear capability.

I was hooked – blurting out “what can I do to be involved?!?” Nancy asked if I’d like to acquire some of their materials, hoping to use them to distribute at a nominal fee. I suggested that the cause is so great, and the effort so profound, that I’d rather buy a few banners and a bunch of magnets outright – and give them away to start spreading the message of No Nukes for Iran with enthusiasm (we now have a banner hanging just inside the entrance of the Temple, one ready to be displayed at our local Federation building, and magnets have been affixed to bumpers, starting to spread the word through our community).

I was flattered when a few moments later, she asked “could we promote your congregation among the first to support our cause?” What a great joy to know we are helping to work for justice in the world, raise a next generation that is dedicated to meaningful acts of tikkun olam (repairing the world), and connecting more deeply with a dear friend along the way.

So what can you do? First, contact No Nukes for Iran, and chime in with your support. Next, see how a similar like-minded group of young people in your community – youth groupers, college/university students, Hillel, political activists – can also be engaged to pick up the banner (literally) of this vital cause. Be willing to speak up and speak out – contact your legislators and representatives – making sure they know YOU oppose a nuclear Iran.

And if you know of other similar efforts, or have additional suggestions for action, PLEASE SHARE THEM HERE!

Time keeps on tickin'

2010-02-05T13:38:00.000-05:00

Judaism is a clock. Look at your watch, you may think of where you were yesterday at 3. Open your calendar (or your iPhone, Palm or Blackberry), you can recall what you were doing last Monday, or back in November, or over summer vacation. You can also see what you’ll be doing tomorrow and next week, or where you’re supposed to be at different times ahead. Judaism too provides a structure to time – to how we mark, celebrate and evaluate clock – the moments, days, and years of our life. Jewish practice (BEING JEWISH) is based on a daily, weekly, seasonal and holiday cycle that gives shape and significance to how we spend our time on earth. The biblical psalmist implores: “teach us to number our days that we might get a heart of wisdom” (Psalms 90:12).

Often, we think we need to find a single way for our clocks to tick – that is we assume there’s a singular passion or reason to drive us along the path of life. Perhaps we mislead ourselves by looking for that particular passion. Rather than beating ourselves up to find one passion in life – we should bear in mind that real worth is found in the everyday. It’s not the big things we think about that matter, it’s the little things we don’t think about that make a difference. Consider these “regular” praiseworthy acts:

The dedicated teacher who spends those extra few minutes with a student in need – either for additional help in a subject or to build confidence as a person;
The overworked parent who unfailingly carpools her children, and others, from event, to event, to event – without complaint or thanks;
The busy employee who takes time from his crazy schedule to call mom or dad, just to say “hi, I love you”;
The tired professional who nevertheless always makes time for the kids to play catch, or monopoly, ride a bike, or roll in the leaves rather than answer that one final email;
The anonymous temple member who sets up an oneg Shabbat – not for recognition, to make the experience beautiful for our guests;
The caring individuals, who go out of their way to reach out to a person in need – bringing comfort or good cheer to hospital, home or mailbox, whether they know him or not.

These and a million more are examples of what goes on around us every day. It’s how most of us fill our days. And they are heroic, righteous and uplifting.

Jewish customs will always change and evolve: our rituals and prayers, Jewish foods, music and garments, geography and locale. These are just accessories, not Jewish life itself. Judaism is a clock – a timepiece that makes our lives count. And the clock of our life will march ever forward. In this New Year, we will surely struggle to keep up. Let us therefore conduct ourselves with gratitude for the sacred mundane – that each day, every day, fills our hearts with wisdom. Then we will know that life’s precious moments – even, especially, its ordinary ones – are divine.

So what cool, simple and wonderful things are you doing to number your days, earning a heart of wisdom?

Do Shabbat - a powerful pulse in our lives

2010-01-29T13:21:00.000-05:00

Jewish tradition holds that the crown of creation is the institution of Shabbat. In Genesis we read: “On the seventh day, God ended the work of creation; on the seventh day, God rested with all the work complete. God blessed the seventh day and called it holy, for with this day God completed the work of creation.” From the very time of creation, Judaism has provided us with a weekly respite from the business of our world, and the periodic respite we so desperately need. Abraham Joshua Heschel, the towering 20^th-century figure, wrote: “Judaism is a religion of time aiming at the sanctification of time.” Accordingly, if we follow Jewish custom, Shabbat is the basic building block of Jewish time. Heschel continued: “The meaning of the Sabbath is to celebrate time rather than space. On the Sabbath we try to become attuned to holiness in time…to turn from the results of creation to the mystery of creation; from the world of creation to the creation of the world.”

Just what is it that Shabbat provides us? “To maintain a powerful pulse in our lives, we must learn how to rhythmically spend and renew energy.” So wrote Jim Loehr and Tony Schwartz in their compelling book The Power of Full Engagement. To this Jewish reader, it sounds very much like another positive plug for Shabbat. Loehr and Schwartz continue: “Healthy patterns of activity and rest lie at the heart of our capacity for full engagement, maximum performance and sustained health.” Loehr and Schwartz call their concept “periodic disengagement”; deeply exploring and explaining the need for real and regular refreshment and renewal, they seem to be arguing on behalf of Shabbat, our building block of Jewish life and time (for more on this book, see http://hpinstitute.com/book_PFE.html)

I encourage you to “do Shabbat” – by making the effort to establish a tradition for you and your family. This doesn’t have to be anything monumental or difficult – spend some extra time together; take a break for the hectic tasks of home, work and school; enjoy a meal with family and friends – say a blessing, sing songs, foster a sense of community. Take pleasure in “being” rather than “creating”. Let this time be one of inspiration and renewal, done in small steps, one by one, week by week. And together, we will continue to find meaning in our lives, and bring blessings to our world.

How do you do Shabbat? Share your ideas an others might do Shabbat with you.

The Power of Jewish Camping

2010-01-22T13:14:00.000-05:00

I love camp….always have. Spending eleven consecutive summers growing up at the Reform movement’s camp in the Berkshires of western Massachusetts stands out as a major part of my formative years. I clearly understand how this powerful experience has helped shape the lives of so many of my friends, colleagues, and family members (for a warm, irreverent, fun look at the camp idea, see CAMP CAMP: WHERE FANTASY ISLAND MEETS LORD OF THE FLIES, by Roger Bennet and Jules Shell, more info at http://campcampbook.blogspot.com/).

And just what is it about going to camp that can make it among the most influential opportunities for young people? It’s not the program or schedule (with due respect to those of us who work so hard to prepare these items). I don’t even think it’s the time away (sometimes attending one session for 2 weeks is a provocative as returning year-after-year for the whole summer). Rather – beyond the games that are played, the materials that are taught, or the skills that are acquired – the strength of the camping experience is the very atmosphere (as several of my friends call it, “drinking the Kool-Aid"). Chatting with a dear long-time camp friend a few days ago, I was reminded of a phrase that emerged in conversation last year: when it comes to camp, the setting is the text (thanks DL). From the facility itself (good or bad), the complaints about the food or bugs, the openness that young people often feel while being “away from home” to the freedom of one’s own self-expression, it is the different, special, and experimental nature of the environment that allows, promotes, such potent encounters to take place.

Nothing represents this suggestion more so than the relationships that are developed in the camp setting: between counselors and campers, among the staff, with the rabbis or specialists and other “additional” members of the community; and none more significant than the bonds developed among peers – the other kids in the bunk, or tent, or unit. To this day, I am blessed that so many of the people dearest and closest to me are my camp friends. A lot of years have passed, and these connections remain. In many cases, these friendships have continued to deepen – either having been maintained over the years, or reignited more recently (to this point, I was interrupted while writing this sentence by a phone call from one such old friendJ).

I loved being part of the Eisner camp for so many summers. These days I am delighted to serve the URJ’s Olin-Sang-Ruby camp (to support OSRUI, see http://osrui.urjcamps.org/give/). Camp remains important to me – not only because of my ongoing involvement as a faculty member; more so at this stage, because I see how positive camp is for my own children, and the young members of my congregation. I was fortunate that my family had the ability to send me to camp for those years (you can support URJ Eisner Camp at http://eisner.urjcamps.org/give/). Now we all have the ability and responsibility to assure that the power of Jewish camping is an experience provided to every one of our precious youngsters (to support Jewish camp generally, see http://www.jewishcamp.org/).

I know many of you have also enjoyed amazing, challenging, fun and funny experiences at camp. I’d LOVE for you to share one here, so we can enjoy those memories together.

2010-01-15T13:25:00.000-05:00

As we approach this weekend of Martin Luther King Day, we commemorate the legacy of one of the great voices for social change of the 20th century. Celebrating MLK’s struggle for social justice resonates especially with American Jews – due to both our historic religious obligation to tikkun olam (being God’s agents in repairing and improving the world) and our intimate involvement in the cause for civil rights in this nation.
This Shabbat, we read from the Torah portion known as Vaera, in which God instructs Moses to say to Pharaoh, “Let My people go, that they me serve Me.”. These words are familiar to many of us: They are a timeless expression of hope for any downtrodden or oppressed people, as well as a hallmark exclamation in our American struggles for social, cultural, racial and religious freedom and equality.

So, in thinking about these momentous ideas at this time, I am reflecting on a few of my favorite Jewish quotes regarding social justice, and how each of us can be engaged in perfecting the world in our own day.

Justice, justice shall you pursue. (Deuteronomy 16:20)
I believe these powerful words to be the origins of Jewish social justice – where our striving for just causes is not merely suggested or inferred, but commanded as part of our understanding of the human condition.

Let justice well up like water, righteousness as a mighty stream. (Amos 5:24)
Our attempts toward social good can always be increased, and we should aim at making our efforts overflow.

In the realm of the spirit, our fathers taught us thousands of years ago that when God created man, he created him as everybody’s neighbor. Neighbor is not a geographic term. It is a moral concept. It means our collective responsibility for the preservation of man’s dignity and integrity.
These words were spoken by Rabbi Joachim Prinz, in his remarks at the Lincoln Memorial that introduced MLK’s “I have a dream” speech, August 28, 1963. ‘nuff said.

And finally, a great quote from one of the modern Jewish prophetic voices, Abraham Joshua Heschel, who of course marched alongside Dr. King:
We are commanded to love our neighbor: this must mean that we can.

These are a few of my favorites. What are yours? I’d love to know. More importantly, I look forward to working alongside you that we might together carry on the sacred tasks of those who came before us.

A refreshed commitment - what Jewish networking SHOULD be all about

2010-01-08T14:22:00.000-05:00

Here’s a thought for the beginning of 2010, based on a recent re-reading of an insightful, brief magazine column. In the July 2005 edition of FastCompany, author Marshall Goldsmith makes a bold proposition about engaging with other human beings. He suggests that the most vital aspect of human interaction is to be fully present, connecting in such a way that the other person feels like the only person in the room. What a fascinating idea this is to apply to the congregational world. Imagine what it would be like if we – rabbis, Jewish professionals, and lay leaders – worked to foster an environment in which every person who enters the doors of our synagogues and agencies, was embraced as if the only person at hand. These people thereby would come to feel as if they really mattered, and this would instantly elevate their experience, and transform our synagogue community.

We Jews are called to maintain that each and every person is worthy of being viewed through this lens of being someone who matters. And so in our best moments we remember our obligation to consider each other with the highest regard. One of my beloved teachers liked to say “we don’t have to love everyone we meet; but we can try to find one thing about them that is loveable.” This remains a powerful inspiration in my own career. As Jews we are to be actively involved as God’s partners in making right and just conduct the way of our lives. For Judaism to flourish, the treatment we desire for ourselves must be reflected in how we value the people around us. My life and work are enhanced when I am able to demonstrate that our tradition does not want us to live insular lives, as if Judaism itself can survive in a vacuum. I encourage Jewish practice also to enhance the world beyond the walls of the synagogue community.

A REFRESHED COMMITMENT (some might say “a resolution”):

To keep striving toward this goal, I have to continue improving myself. I need to take advantage of a continued commitment to talmud torah – a passionate commitment to life-long Jewish learning for personal enrichment. I also have to take care of myself physically (you know, the old healthy diet and exercise bit). Perhaps by truly bettering myself, I can then make others know that they are “the only others in the room.”

Tell me what you’re doing to better yourself, especially in how you relate to those around you.

(Marshall’s article, The Skill that Separates, can be found at http://www.marshallgoldsmithlibrary.com/cim/FastCompany.php. It’s still the reason a continue reading FastCompany.)

Twenty-ten and Tikkun Olam

2010-01-03T12:02:00.000-05:00

In the passage from the morning worship service called yotzer, we read that God “renews day-by-day the work of Creation”. This suggests that we too, as God’s partners in maintaining the world, have an ongoing, daily possibility to make a difference with our lives. Perhaps our most sacred task is to assist God in the very process of “renewing Creation.” I see this as the origin of our commitment to tikkun olam, repairing the world, which is the foundation of the Jewish ideal of social justice.

How powerful and satisfying it is to know that striving for social justice – addressing the ills that face our community and world – has always been a priority of Jewish tradition. A vast majority in this community (South Bend, IN) have been involved in a wide variety of historic causes and actions, spearheaded over the years by our congregation and it historic professional and lay leadership. (Truly, I would dare say, a significant number of my own congregation would define their Judaism in terms of commitment to such concerns.) I’m certain that we could share stories regarding every major civil movement of the last century, taking pride in the contributions of members of our families, congregations and communities. Here in my home, we have been bolstered by our recent engagement in Nothing but Nets, Just Congregations, calling for justice in Darfur, and increasing awareness and supporting efforts regarding cancer and disease, just naming a few. (For more on these programs, see www.nothingbutnets.net and www.urj.org/justcongregations/.)

Most significantly, each of these causes reminds us and guarantees us that the larger effort provided by a community is made up of the actions of individuals, and every one of us individuals can make a difference. Even when these colder days of winter might find us shying away from formal activities – our work of tikkun olam ever continues enthusiastically. We are mindful of the world-wide pleas for humanitarian aid; our challenge to operate our homes and work places more effectively also helps to “green” the world, protecting our environment; and the ever-present conversation about health care access and health care advocacy.

Through these days of a long, cold and snowy winter (at least here in northern Indiana!), we return to our opening blessing: baruch atah adonai – Praised are you, Eternal God, for granting us this sacred opportunity to renew our lives by repairing the world.

What will you do in 2010 to make a difference? I’d love to know.

Favorite reads 2009

2009-12-28T13:27:00.000-05:00

As we come toward the close of 2009, I’m looking back at the various books I’ve read over the year. The following are not necessarily the “best” books (nor were they all published in 2009). They are among the most interesting or favorite reads I’ve had. Each are worthy of recommendation. This is not an exhaustive list of the interesting items on my list, and I’d love to know what you think about the following:

Albert-Laszlo Barabasi, Linked: How Everything is Connected to Everything Else what It Means for Business, Science and Everyday Life (Penguin, 2003).

I have recently become a serious student of social network theory (no surprise here), and Barabasi is one of the gurus of the field. This volume not only outlines the recent trends in the area – it also gives an invigorating exposition of the interplay among the physical and social sciences and the arts. Creative souls and networking minds enhance one another.

Stuart Brown, Play - How It Shapes the Brain, Opens the Imagination, and Invigorates the Soul (Penguin Group, 2009).

Play is easily the most influential book I’ve read this year, and one of my favorites of the decade. An intelligent, enjoyable exploration of the importance, power, and necessity of play in our lives – this volume demonstrates that “recapturing” the sense of awe and wonder of childhood is a sad requirement for many of us, as we should never have lost it in the first place. Brown provides a great addition to our understanding of humanity’s search for meaningful existence.

David Ellenson, After Emancipation: Jewish Religious Responses to Modernity (Hebrew Union College Press, 2004).

OK – this entry mainly betrays my life-long geeky interest in Jewish history. In this collection of essays Ellenson, president of HUC-JIR, delivers a wide array of examples of Jewish re-framing of tradition and practice in the modern era. It’s a wonderful read for anyone interested in the ongoing progressive nature of Judaism.

Zachary I. Heller, ed., Synagogues in a Time of Change: Fragmentation and Diversity in Jewish Religious Movements (The Alban Institute, 2009).

The Alban Institute has long been a leading think-tank about American congregational life. This collection of essays by a variety of Jewish thinkers and practitioners captures the current fragile, tumultuous, and exciting moment in American Judaism.

Daniel H. Pink, A Whole New Mind: Why Right-Brainers Will Rule the Future (Riverhead Books, 2006).

This is a fascinating exploration of the emerging “conceptual age”, in which it is necessary for us to cultivate both our imaginative and logical capacities in order to progress successfully in work, career, play and life. In addition to his descriptive material, Pink offers a “portfolio” of suggested activities for each of his “six senses.”

So what good stuff have you read this year? And more so – what’s on your reading list for 2010? Let me know.

The power of names

2009-12-22T14:53:00.000-05:00

Today I had the wonderful opportunity to participate in the Hebrew naming of not one, not two, but THREE children of the congregation. So I’ve been thinking a lot about names:

L’chol ish yesh shem – “Every person has a name.” According to our tradition, each of us has three names: the one given to us by our parents; the one by which we are known; and the one we hope to earn for ourselves. Judaism has placed great significance on our names. Our Hebrew names connote certain meanings, and therefore are seen to describe us as well. The ancient rabbis said k’sh’mo keyn hu – “As is the name, such is the person.” Throughout our history, and especially in the Bible, specific names were granted or chosen for this very purpose. “Adam”, who was created from the dust of the earth, refers to earth itself. “Eve”, the first mother, is a word that means “life.” “Abraham” is said to mean “father of many peoples.” “Moses” is so called for he was “drawn out” from the waters of the Nile by Pharaoh’s daughter.

And so do we continue this tradition even to this day. When we name our children in memory or honor of other family members, we keep those loved ones, and their names, alive. I greatly enjoy assisting families in selecting names, as it gives me the opportunity to share with them the tradition of looking at the meanings of the words themselves, and to help continue writing their sacred family narrative.

So tell me – what’s YOUR Hebrew name, and how was it chosen for you? I’d love to know.

The potato chanukiah - a family story for the 6th nite

2009-12-16T21:12:00.000-05:00

Tonight, driving home from Temple on the 6^th night of Hanukkah, I called my parents to say hello (as I often do randomly during the week). Talking with my dad, he says “hey, guess what I found today? I was reaching for something in the cabinet in the family room, and pulled out a wooden menorah. You remember it?” “Yeah, sure”, I said, “two stacked pieces of wood, painted blue and gold, with nuts on it for the candles.” “And it says ‘Eric Siroka’ on the bottom”, dad continued. “One of these days, you should take it. You should have it at your house.”

I continued by telling him of a similar chanukiah that my son Benjamin made a year or so ago – this one out of mini flower pots turned upside-down, also painted blue and gold and silver, with the right-sized nuts glued on for the candles. Then, even over the phone, I could see a light go off over dad’s head, as he repeated a story to me:

“I remember one day as a kid coming home from synagogue, and telling my parents (my grandparents) that the teacher told us that we should do something ‘fancy’ or ‘creative’ to celebrate Hanukkah. ‘Fancy? Creative’? your grandpa replied. ‘When I was kid, we had nothing. We didn’t have a fancy menorah or anything for Hanukkah. We each went out and found the BIGGEST potato we could find, flattened one side (so it would sit still) and poked some holes in it for the candles. And we had a menorah.’”

Dad went on: “so I decided then to go to the kitchen and get the biggest potato we had, and use it for a chanukiah that night. I can still remember those funny little orange candles we used – they were all orange back then.”

Just then, I pulled into the parking lot of our local supermarket – I was picking up orange juice on the way home. A powerful thought struck me. I told dad “hey, I have to go – gotta run in and get a potato and little candles so I can tell your story tonight to the kids. Ben and Vered will love this.” I could hear dad smiling on the other end of the phone.

I got home, took off my coat, went to the kitchen. I took out that BIGGEST potato I could find, flattened one side (so it would sit still) and poked some holes in it for the candles. I went downstairs and told the story that my dad (their grandpa) had told me that his dad (my grandpa) had told him. We went up to the kitchen, and the four of us lit our chanukiot – chanted the blessings and sang maoz tzur. Now in the warm glow of the Hanukkah candles, with a little Mingus in the background J, I raise a glass in honor of this festive holiday, and in thanks to the story of my family, speaking to me to this day.

Ner Shel Tzedakah - Pursuing Justice on the 6th night of Hanukkah

2009-12-16T11:58:00.000-05:00

Tonight is the sixth night of Hanukkah – which has been called Ner Shel Tzedakah (Candle of Righteousness). Ner Shel Tzedakah is a program to raise public awareness and educate the Jewish community about poverty. On the 6th night of Hanukkah, we encourage families to teach their children about the needs of those less fortunate and donate the value of the gifts they would ordinarily exchange (or the gifts themselves) to local or national organizations assisting the poor. In addition to Temple’s ongoing social justice efforts, like our congregation’s Hamotzi Project (which supports the local food pantries) here are a few items to consider in making your family’s Ner Shel Tzedakah commitment for the 6th night of Hanukkah – Wednesday, December 16.

NOTHING BUT NETS (www.nothingbutnets.net)

It’s the perfect time to give a child a wonderful gift that will last through the holiday season and for many years to come - a protective bed net to keep them safe from malaria. Imagine what the global economic recession means to the world’s poorest, for whom a single mosquito bite can be the difference between life and death. It only costs $10 to send a net and each net saves lives in Africa.

MAZON – A Jewish Response to Hunger (www.mazon.org)

Each year, MAZON grants over $4 million to more than 300 carefully screened hunger-relief agencies, including emergency food providers, food banks, multi-service organizations and advocacy groups that seek long-term solutions to the hunger problem. MAZON (“food” in Hebrew) believes its dual purpose is to provide for those who are hungry today and to address the systemic causes of hunger and poverty, both domestically and globally. Although grants are provided to many organizations serving the Jewish poor, in keeping with the best of Jewish tradition MAZON believes it is important to respond to all who are in need.

Ronald McDonald Family Room (www.qualityoflife.org/ronald)

The Ronald McDonald Family Room at Memorial Hospital is a safe, affordable home-away-from-home for families of seriously ill children. Families draw support from each other, and from the caring volunteers who help them through a truly difficult time in their lives. In the Ronald McDonald Family Room, families can relax, take a quiet moment and a deep breath in a warm and comfortable environment that the medical world does not enter. Our Family Room is approximately 2,000 square feet with three sleeping rooms, two baths with showers, a laundry room, a fully equipped kitchen, a library and, of course, a family room. The Family Room relies on the generosity of the community for monetary donations, goods, services, and for the countless hours of volunteer time. There are certainly similar facilites in other communities as well!

Hanukkah is our traditional celebration of religious freedom. As we recall the victory of the Maccabees against an overwhelming foe, so too do we consider how we can be champions of freedom, goodness and peace on behalf of all people everywhere. I hope your family will participate in Ner Shel Tzedakah – whether on this 6th night of the holiday, or one of your choosing. I would love to know of your contributions – of time, finances and volunteerism – in honor of this effort. Together, we can make each night one dedicated to perfecting the world.

Hanukkah, celebration of evolving Judaism

2009-12-11T15:13:00.000-05:00

Hanukkah is a celebration of Jewish pride and identity. With its roots in the Maccabean revolt around 165 BCE, the Festival of Lights is a yearly reminder of the dynamic tension that has characterized the relationship between Judaism and society – the challenge to maintain tradition while also being relevant in the age. This relationship has allowed (and demanded) that Judaism evolve continually – in its forms and perspectives, and remain significant. It is this very tension that has inspired Jews and Judaism to be creative throughout our history – healthy Jewish expression has grown and changed throughout the years. Perhaps there is no better example of Judaism’s progressive nature than the realm of religious practice and ritual. It is in this area that we see, perhaps slowly, the most meaningful representation of evolving Jewish identity and understanding. For nothing describes Jewish life and culture as fundamentally as our liturgy and rituals, and the art that emerge from them. Here’s a fabulous example, from NPR’s “Morning Edition”, December 11, 2009:

An exhibit at the Jewish Museum in New York has everything from green energy synagogues to a prayer shawl that doubles as an apron. Many of the works are influenced by environmentalism and feminism. There are menorahs just in time for Chanukah that invite people to look at lighting the candles in a very different way.

(go to www.npr.org to hear the full story)

The vibrant relationship between Jewish heritage and the world in which we live is a great blessing, for which we give thanks as we celebrate Hanukkah, dedicating ourselves anew as agents of freedom, compassion and justice. HAPPY HANUKKAH!

2009-12-08T23:49:00.001-05:00

OK friends - for my first post - a quote from a new book, one of several recent works I've read in the field of social network theory...in it, the author offers a GREAT insight to the importance and relevance of "new" technology of connecting.

Adam L. Penenberg writes in Viral Loop:

Why do we do it? What explains our BlackBerry-bearing, Twitter-tweeting, Facebook friend with the need for constant connectivity? As facile as it sounds, we do it because we are hard-wired to socialize. It’s in our best interests. One reason we gravitate toward communities is because they multiply the impact of each individual to bring greater prosperity, security, and fulfillment to all. Aristotle believed that “man is a political animal” and we achieve noble actions by living as citizens together. What is politics, however, but the expression of personal interest manifested in the body politic? Two thousand years later Benedictus de Spinoza, a seventeenth-century Dutch philosopher of Portuguese-Jewish descent, expressed the view that men “are scarcely able to lead a solitary life so that the definition of man as a social animal has met with general assent; in fact, men do derive from social life much more convenience than injury.”

Perhaps the answer is even more fundamental than Aristotle, Spinoza, or other philosophers ever imagined. Social networking makes us happy and, online or off, all this congregating is merely a product of biological necessity. Research indicates that engaging with friends helps us live longer and better lives…It didn’t matter if the friends stayed in contact via phone, letter, or email. Just the fact that they had a social network of friends acted as a protective barrier.

What are your thoughts?