We end this week still terribly shaken by the horrific massacre that took place in Jerusalem, claiming the lives of five Israelis. That blood was spilled in a synagogue is eerily reminiscent of another era. But today there is a Jewish state. And the fact that those who died were also American, British, and Druze encapsulates the incredible story of Israel, a homeland to Jews around the world and a singular democracy. If we needed another reminder that this is modern Israel, congregants have already returned to the synagogue in Har Nof. Despite the grief, with strength and courage, life carries on.
It is too early to know if the recent rash of terror in and around Jerusalem marks the beginning of a third intifada. Regardless, Israelis are deeply unsettled, and we share their sense of uncertainty. We steadfastly support Israel’s right to defend itself. We are hopeful that calm will be restored in Jerusalem and throughout the land. And we pray for an end to bloodshed. These are not just words to us — these are the expression of our core values.
I’m returning to Israel next week on what is my fifth trip since July. This time, it’s for a personal reason — my youngest daughter is celebrating her bat mitzvah. Suddenly, this trip has added meaning for me and my family. In grief and in celebration, Israel is part of who we are.
Of course, next week also brings Thanksgiving with its optimistic message of gratitude, a core value we share as Americans and Jews. This is another moment to appreciate what it means to belong to a community that cares for one another in times of crisis and every day.
As we gather around our Thanksgiving tables wherever we are, it’s appropriate to take stock of the things for which we can be grateful. And because you support UJA-Federation, consider also these reasons to give thanks:
• This past week, our PovertySLAM conference brought together more than 100 teenagers who chose to spend a Sunday discussing creative ways to combat poverty in our community.
• On Tuesday night, 40 young professionals donated their time to help students from the Hillels of Baruch, Hunter, and the College of Staten Island hone their job-interviewing skills. From one generation of leaders another is born.
• Read about The New York Times Neediest Cases, featuring the work of some of our beneficiary agencies, and remind yourself how just a small gesture of help can make a huge difference. Here’s just one story.
These last few months, on your behalf, I’ve been to Israel, France, Ukraine, and in neighborhoods all around New York, Long Island, and Westchester. Everywhere, I’ve seen the impact of our work and met with people whose lives are immeasurably better because of what we do. Yes, there is heartache, but there are also so many reasons to be grateful.
And so this Thanksgiving, wherever you are and however you celebrate, I wish you a holiday filled with gratitude for America, for Israel, for the gift of freedom, and, most of all, for each other.
Shabbat shalom