Rabbi Howard Morrison

Dear Congregational Family,

It is roughly a year since the fullness of the pandemic fell upon us. Our shul was filled to the brim on Purim eve last year, March 9. A week later, shuls were shut down, and many of us began to feel quarantined in our homes. The pleasures of cruises, air travel, visiting Israel, attending sports events, watching live musicals, going to the movies, dining in restaurants, sharing physical company with family and friends were either minimized or ceased to exist. Many of us felt alone, anxious, and depressed. Our feelings are true. Noone has the right to dispute how we feel. As a community, we have tried our best to reach out, offer comfort and hope, conduct services, classes, and programs on line. 

For some of us, we have been humbled to be grateful for that which is truly important - our health, warmth in our homes, shelter, a roof over our heads, food, clothing, and the like. 

Judaism is ultimately a way of life based on moderation and perspective. Unlike some denominations which forbid wine or alcohol all the time, Judaism allows it in moderation most of the time. On Yom Kippur, one does not imbibe at all. On Purim, one imbibes a bit more than usual. Only if one suffers from addiction, is drinking prohibited strictly as a health and safety measure.

The laws of Kashrut instruct us to live a life of discipline and moderation. Yes - we are allowed to eat meat. But the laws of Kashrut instill respect for animals. They must not feel pain or be made to suffer when their lives are taken. Blood, the source of life, is removed before consumption. Of course, vegetarianism for many is an ideal to be strived for. 

This past week, we all sympathize and empathize with our brothers and sisters in Texas and some other areas. Their lives and homes have been drastically impacted by snow and ice, blackouts, a loss of all electric power. Many families have been devastated. We are called upon to give Tzedaka and extend compassion. Noone should have to live as they are right now.

Our Parsha this week is ultimately a lesson about free will giving to help those around us. In the Biblical text, giving Tzedaka, called Terumah, helped to ensure the community's spiritual center called a Mikdash or Mishkan. In a broader sense, giving Tzedaka is meant to ensure the wellbeing of people, their communities, their homes, and their vital institutions.

On this Shabbat Zachor, we also remember extreme evil, when Amalek attacked the Israelites from behind upon their leaving Egypt. While Amalek refers to an ancient historical nation, this past week, an extreme force of nature has attacked the innocent and vulnerable South of our border. We pray that help, health, recovery, and recuperation come soon.

And so - while we are all adversely affected by Covid one year later,  let us be grateful with perspective, discipline, and moderation for the gifts we truly cherish.

Sincerely, 

Rabbi Howard Morrison