January 2006
Dear Friends,
Subsequent to a nearly fatal heart attack, Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel was asked about his thoughts and feelings as he contemplated the events of his life. He referred back to a preface in his book of Yiddish poems in which he said: "I did not ask for success; I asked for wonder." The Chanukah season is a season for honoring wonder. All are familiar with the story of the portion of oil sufficient for one day that illuminates eight days so that the dedication of the Temple can be successful. Chanukah is thus both the Festival of Dedication and the Festival of Lights. So much wonder is wrapped around a holiday of lights and dedication.
Yet we should not forget that Chanukah is also a remembrance of religious freedom and the sacrifices that many make in standing up to oppression. As noted by Theodor Gaster, "Chanukah affirms the universal truth that the only effective answer to oppression is the intensified positive assertion of the principles and values which that oppression threatens."
We in the Brattleboro Area Jewish Community are extending the Chanukah spirit into the next half year as we prepare to move into our Greenleaf home and to dedicate our own synagogue. We are so much looking forward to gathering in our own house of worship! In the next few months there will be many, many opportunities for each member of our community to contribute to this passage. It just takes a phone call to Faith or to any Board member to let someone know how you can help. As the philosopher William James once said, "The great use of life is to spend it for something that will outlast it."
As we recall and celebrate the miracles of times long past, it is indeed wondrous that each of us can contribute to and be part of the creation and dedication of a permanent home for our community.
B’Shalom, Paul
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