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The earliest possible moment
10/28/2020 12:09:04 PM
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It might seem a bit early to be thinking about Chanukah, but I want to talk about Chanukah in conjunction with something that is very current in our lives right now: The election.
Lighting Chanukah candles anytime after sunset is typically fair game. However, I learned while living in Israel that many observant Jews rush to light candles at the very first twinkle of stars in the sky. This way, they prolong the mitzvah of lighting the candles for as long as possible, thereby increasing and expanding the existence of light in this world. For eight days, there is a bustle of energy as nightfall approaches. People leave work early to light with their families at home. Chanukah melodies echo through the air. The atmosphere is festive and bright, and not just because of the flickering candles. The whole Jewish community comes together to celebrate freedom.
This week, the start of early voting in Westchester County brought about a similar sentiment. Many of us -- myself included -- endured long lines to vote, rushing to be counted at the earliest possible moment. We had time to spare, with over a week to go before Election Day. Nevertheless, when voting opened on Saturday, hundreds upon thousands of people spent over four hours in line to fulfill their civic duty. We could have waited for lighter crowds on a weekday. We could have taken their chances with an absentee ballot. Instead, we chose to raise our voices as part of a movement of people hungry for a say in the future of the United States of America.
Admittedly, I did not cast my own vote until Tuesday. However, I still spent over 90 minutes in line from start to finish. But the wait did not feel like a burden. I felt like I was -- literally -- praying with my feet, marching along the track towards the Yorktown Community and Cultural Center with an army of hundreds. The safety protocols to avoid the spread of COVID-19 were a labor of love; the volunteers friendly and heroic. When I finished, it was as if a weight had been lifted off of my shoulders. I had participated in something that was meaningful and productive.
By casting our votes early, our county set a precedent of increased voter turn-out that resulted in extended hours of polling that will enable even more people to raise their voices. These are unprecedented and difficult times. No matter how the election turns out, it is important for us to at least kindle the flame of making our choices known. Without this spark, our future could remain dark and lonely.
Mon, May 6 2024
28 Nisan 5784
Temple israel Happenings
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Saturday ,
MayMay 11 , 2024Brotherhood-Sisterhood Movie Night: The Apartment
Shabbat, May 11th 7:00pm to 9:30pm
"The Apartment". From 1960, the story of a young New York insurance company employee, trying to get ahead by “loaning” his apartment to other executives. His life becomes complicated with unintended consequences when he falls in love with the office-building elevator operator. Directed by the legendary Billy Wilder it stars Jack Lemmon & Shirley McClaine in one of their best roles. The movie is a beautiful and funny love story but also a pointed commentary on office politics, morality and how certain men treat women, circa 1960. The Broadway play “Promises, Promises” is the musical version of this wonderful film. -
Tuesday ,
MayMay 14 , 2024Current Events
Tuesday, May 14th 10:30am to 12:00pm
On the second Tuesday of each month, from 10:30 -12:00, join us at the Temple for our lively discussion around issues of local, national and international news events. We cover everything from breaking news to issues around health and well being and more! If you can't come in person, contact Shari at sbaum@wjcs.com to receive a link to join us virtually. -
Wednesday ,
MayMay 15 , 2024Sisterhood Year-End Dinner with Authors Jane Applegate & Alice Look
Wednesday, May 15th 6:30pm to 9:00pm
Come to vote on our 2024-25 budget and slate of officers. Then, in honor of Mother’s Day, Sisterhood member Jane Applegate and her creative collaborator, Alice Look, will lead a lively discussion of remarkable women throughout history based on Look’s new book: Remarkable Women: Reclaiming Their Stories. This multimedia, interactive program features stories about extraordinary mothers, daughters and sisters whose stories span centuries. All profits from books sold that evening support the Remarkable Women Project Inc., a nonprofit educational organization. -
Friday ,
MayMay 17 , 2024Shabbat Shabbang
Friday, May 17th 5:00pm to 6:00pm
Join our clergy for songs, music, crafts, challah, pizza, and yummy treats! We welcome families with children 7 and under (and their older siblings). Bring a friend to share in our Shabbat!
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