Co-Presidents Message

 

 

 

It is that time of year when the days are short and the nights are long. We are already visualizing the days when we are outdoors in the warmth and sunlight. They cannot come soon enough.   However, there are some things that we can all do at this time. Some might consider the suggestions to be “old fashioned”, but we think that they will definitely be appreciated.

 

The first is the personal phone call. We all have I-phones and computers and we communicate by texting. We know that taking the time to actually call someone, with no ulterior motive in mind, is very much appreciated. Making a phone call to a Temple member whom you haven’t seen in a while and asking how things are going, is a step in the right direction. This is especially true of those who are older, who might be living alone or who might be ill. We guarantee that your efforts will be appreciated. Hearing a message left by an old friend or a congregant on your answering machine makes a person feel appreciated and valued.

 

Writing a personal note is another lost art. Teaching this thoughtful skill to children and grandchildren is helping them to think of others, to engage in acts of t’kun olam. Just sit down and write a few uplifting sentences.

 

How nice is it to have someone come to your house and bring candy, some cookies, or even a few flowers? Looking at these gifts is a daily reminder that you were thoughtful enough to take the time to think of someone.

 

A smile and a hello is an inexpensive way of saying to someone, “I acknowledge you, how are you?” We know how happy we feel when a stranger says thank you or hello to us.  The reverse is also true. When walking through the halls of Temple Israel people feel hurt when others walk past them and act as if they are invisible. It shouldn’t happen. Sitting in clusters at tables and not reaching out to those who are visiting our synagogue for the first time is not right. Treat others the way you would like to be treated.

 

This is a world filled with problems; life is tough right now. Wouldn’t it be nice to make an effort to add a few of the niceties into daily living?

 

How about giving it a try?

Sincerely,

Bryn Biren & Felicia Otto

Co-Presidents