Dear
Congregants,
Maybe it’s just a coincidence, but I keep coming
across the same message lately.
One person can make a difference. I hear it in
speeches, see it in newspapers, and find it in books.
Maybe it’s the type of literature I’m reading,
or maybe it’s just because spirituality is on the
rise.
I began to think, how can I make a difference in my lifetime?
When I look within my heart, I always come up with the
same answer. Help others. Get outside of yourself and
your problems and help others. Visiting a lonely person
or listening without interruption and judgment goes a
long way. Even a simple “What can I do for you,
or how can I help you?” is appreciated.
Giving is truly a selfish act. The giver receives
an abundance of joy, and the returns greatly outweigh
the investment. How much is a smile or an embrace worth?
Similar to the credit card ad on television, the answer
is “priceless.”
At this time, everyone is thinking in terms of
newness. A new year signals a fresh start and many of
us have made a host of resolutions. Unfortunately, we
probably began to lose our focus in a few weeks. This
year, however, let us take a new approach. At the end
of each day, let us reflect on what we have done well
and the steps we’ve taken toward our goals, no matter
how small. Let us appreciate the moments when we’ve
felt divinely guided by the love and fellowship of our
friends here at Temple Bet Emet. Let us notice the beauty
all around us; focus on the positive. Be inspired. Let
every member of this Temple explore opportunities that
never before seemed possible. Together , let us learn
a different way to envision our future, not just for ourselves
but for each one of us as well.
Be’Shalom
Janet
Seidel ,
President
