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I have come to realize that we actually take for granted much of what we do. When a Jew in our community needs to be buried, our Chevra Kaddisha is there to carry out the ancient Jewish traditions. When a member is recuperating from an accident or illness, our BAJC Cares committee responds with notes, calls, meals and visits. Various folks work to take care of our building and to provide all kinds of services and opportunities to our members. Many good things happen because we have dedicated volunteers who "just say YES" when a need arises.
 I could not have done my job without the support of our Board of Trustees, Rabbi Heyn and, of course, my understanding and supportive family. I especially want to thank Julie, who set a new standard for Vice President. I was also blessed to have the advice and support of Paul, our wise I.P.P. (immediate past president). Julie, Paul, and the Board were incredibly generous with their time, good counsel, and support.
Along with responsibilities, being President also has many rewards. I have had the opportunity to meet with many of our members to discuss the future of our congregation. I have watched as we celebrate Jewish holidays and develop interesting educational and social programs. I marvel as our community responds to the needs not only of our congregation, but also of the community at large. One of the best parts of the job is receiving compliments about our congregation. I can’t tell you how many people – congregants, new members, visitors - have told me what a warm and welcoming place this is, what wonderful Torah readers we have, how beautiful our building is, how much our Hebrew school accomplishes, how meaningful our services are. I am grateful to those of you who called, sent an e-mail, or came over to me to thank me for my efforts on behalf of the congregation.
While the job of President is rewarding, I admit it is not always easy. There were times I was awake at three in the morning worrying about BAJC. There were times after a long work day when I felt like I just couldn’t respond to one more e-mail. I often wished I had the wisdom of Solomon to guide me when there were difficult decisions to make. I tried my best to listen, to keep an open mind, to look for creative solutions, to be supportive. I always tried to put the good of the whole ahead of the desires of a few. I hope I lived up to your expectations.
In order for us to create a vibrant future, we must build on our strengths. In fact, we have quite a lot of strengths upon which to build. Here is my one last request as President of BAJC: remember to see the best in your fellow congregants, in our clergy, in our teachers and in every volunteer who works so hard to make Congregation Shir Heharim the special place it is. May we continue to learn together, pray together, and care for each other as we work to create an enduring Jewish community in southeast Vermont. Thank you for the honor of being President.
L’shalom,
Marty
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