Dear Friends,
Last night I had the opportunity to offer opening remarks at the local BBYO gala in Bethesda. Some of you may have participated in this important youth program as teenagers.
I spoke about Joseph and wanted to share a segment of my remarks with you. The Joseph story begins in Genesis, Chapter 37. Joseph is looking for his brothers and encounters a person who offers to help him find them. The person is only identified as “the person.” Joseph finds his brothers, they bury him in a pit and you can read about the sequence of events that unfolds, which culminates in us becoming slaves in Egypt and being freed from slavery.
Much of our history occurs as a result of “the person” performing an act of kindness. At this time of year, each of us has numerous options to perform mitzvot which will help those who are less fortunate to enjoy the Holiday season. Although we can always perform special deeds that make a difference, somehow with the media attention, it seems that this time of year presents so many choices of ways to make a difference.
I hope that in the way that “the person” makes a difference in Joseph’s life, that all of us will find some meaningful way to change the world around us. What better way of showing our gratitude for our blessings than by helping others. Each of us has the potential to change history for at least one other person and to have significant impact upon the lives of others.
Travel safely over your vacation and I look forward to a wonderful 2012!
Hag Chanukah Sameach, (Happy Hanukkah)
Rabbi Bruce Aft