Hi everyone! I hope you’ve had a great week. Lately I’ve been having a lot of conversations in the community that sound very similar. Each time, when I ask someone how they are doing, they say something along the lines of, “I’m okay, but I’m worried.” That worry is about a variety of things. The election next week and the state of politics in our country overall. The conflict in Israel, concern for the hostages, and fear that the conflict is expanding. Conflicts in other parts of the world.  

This is all very natural, and believe me, I’m feeling it too. But last week, I spoke with someone who had a more unique answer. He said, "I’m really trying to stay focused on things closest to me, and my family is doing great." There is a lesson there for sure, and one that I’ve been thinking about since our interaction. 

Our world is anxiety inducing. But if you zoom in, I’ll bet you can find things that ease your anxiety, that make you proud, that bring you joy. For me, it’s also family, but more specifically, that tomorrow my daughter will be celebrating her bat mitzvah. Norah has been working so hard, and over the last few months it has been incredible to practice her Torah with her, to watch her craft her D’Var Torah, to see her take the responsibility seriously. 

Tomorrow we’ll be surrounded by family and friends. We’ll be full of joy, and full of love. And I already know I’ll be shedding a few tears. Maybe more than a few. I wanted to share this today, not because I’m so proud of Norah, but because of the work she’s done, and this milestone is a good reminder that we all have joy in our lives. That when we zoom in, we all can find the things that not only provide us with a sense of comfort, but with a sense of hope. 

It doesn’t make all of the other things go away, and if that anxiety is still in the back of your mind, I understand. But this Shabbat, try to take some time to focus on the joy and let go of the anxiety, even if just for a minute. It’s in those moments that we remember that joy is all around us, and that even in hard times, there are great reasons to celebrate. 

Until next time, I wish you a safe, peaceful, and joyous Shabbat.

Shabbat Shalom,
Adam Greenman
President & CEO

PS: I hope you'll join us for our upcoming B'nai Mitzvah Gala, celebrating 13 years of the Jewish Alliance! The gala will take place on Saturday, December 7 at 6:30pm at the Dwares JCC. Together, we will celebrate our shared journey, achievements, and our vibrant community that has grown stronger together. More than a party, the gala is a heartfelt acknowledgment of our past and an affirmation of our path forward. A plated dinner, dancing, and a special live performance by Israeli artist Gad Elbaz will add to the evening, as will a kids’ bash that's set to take place in tandem with the gala. Click here for more information including ticket prices and sponsorship opportunities.