“To act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with Adonai.” – Micah 6:8
These words keep ringing in my ears as I reflect on the anti-Semitic atrocities committed in Pittsburgh. While anger and frustration flow through me, my Jewish soul keeps reminding me of those powerful words from Micah: I must pursue justice while also moving forward with humility and mercy in my heart. How can one do that? How can I fulfill this prophetic message in the face of such hatred and bigotry?
Throughout my life, the consistent Jewish response that I have had to acts of hatred, violence, and anti-Semitism has been to get up and do something, moving forward by bringing light, hope, and life with me wherever I went.
And that is what I believe we must begin to do as we move forward in the aftermath of Pittsburgh. By sharing light with others and connecting with others who are sharing their lights, we blast radiance into the darkness of anti-Semitism and prejudice. I believe that with utilizing Jewish virtues, they can become beacons that shine life and hope into this darkened world.
So what can you do? Here is just a list of a few things I encourage all of us to participate in:
1) Show up for Shabbat this coming Friday evening. This Shabbat, we will have a special family service at 7 PM that will focus our thoughts and souls on the importance of hope. We will use special readings, songs, and prayers to help guide our hearts towards bringing light to this world. This service is open to the entire community as well as your family and neighbors. All faiths and beliefs are welcome. 2) Perform an act of Tzedakkah. There are many ways that one can financially support specific causes that are important at this time. Here is a short list of a few that come to mind:
ADL - The Anti-Defamation League This organization fights anti-Semitism and bigotry throughout the world. It has been engaged in this fight for almost a century. Click here for more info.
HIAS - The Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society The shooter in Pittsburgh was motivated not only because he hated Jews but also because the synagogue staunchly supported this organization which helps bring immigrants and refugees into this country. Click here for more information.
Gofundme page for Pittsburgh There is a gofundme page that has been set up for the victims and their families of the shootings in Pittsburgh. While some of us may not be comfortable donating to this type of page, we should at least know that this exists in case you would like to participate in this direct fundraiser. Click here for more information.
3) Get out and Vote. We must vote for candidates that we feel will advocate and consistently speak against all forms of hatred and bigotry. The election is next week and it is important for us to realize that it is on our shoulders to elect individuals that we feel will advocate best for our interests as it relates to issues of prejudice and anti-Semitism.
As the days bring us farther and farther away from last Saturday, we must keep the memory of that atrocious act in our minds, not by sitting on our couches but by doing something. Please consider:
Joining us this coming Friday evening,
Performing an act of Tzedakah, as well as
Voting on Tuesday.
By doing these actions, you fulfill Micah’s prophetic proclamation of acting justly and loving mercy, all while walking humbly with God.
Let us all add our light to this darkened world,
Rabbi Robert Weiner _______________________
Temple Beth Am of Northern Westchester 203 Church Place Yorktown Heights, NY 10598
