A Word From The Rabbi
Dear Friend,
The great Chassidic master, Reb Zushe of Hanipoli, once remarked that when he thinks about the interrogation that might await him after his days on earth are done, he is not worried that he might be asked: "Zushe, why could you not attain the heights of an Abraham, a Moses or a King David?" Such concerns did not trouble him. His one and only source of trepidation was that the question would be posed; "Zushe, why were you not as great as Zushe?"
You are expected to rise to the heights of your own very special and unique potential - no more, no less.
Judaism, and its Torah way of life, celebrates individuality. We are each endowed with our own gifts and talents, our own passions and modes of expression. In terms of personality and character, none of us are truly alike. This is the way G‑d created us for it is only through the diverse expression of the multitudes that His true intent in creating this world can be realized.
As we read the Torah portion of Vayishlach this Shabbat, we continue to study about the life and journeys of Jacob. His life, character and personality are quite different than that which we have seen regarding Abraham and Isaac, his grandfather and father.
Each and every Jewish man, woman and child plays his/her own special instrument within the symphony that is Yiddishkeit. Within the context and framework of our relationship with the Al-mighty are endless means and modes of service. From the intellectual to the emotional, from the ritualistic to the artistic, we are called upon to experience it all, even as we shine in some areas more than others. What inspires, stimulates and intrigues some - may not do the same for others. Yet, at the pinnacle of it all, is that special place in which we are, and must remain, identical - a person on a mission from G‑d to bring His light and His goodness to all of creation.
Let each instrument of the orchestra contribute its own special notes with its own special sound and rhythm. Yet, let us make certain that we are playing the same piece of music - as guided by that One and Only conductor - so that rather than a cacophony of disjointed noise, we have a beautiful symphony of harmonious diversity!
L'chaim!
Wishing you a successful week,
Rabbi Yudy Shemtov
Senior Rabbi/Executive Director