There are no words that are adequate for me to write to all of you at this time. This is a moment when all words seem to be empty and hollow. We have just concluded the holiday season with the days that are meant to be “the time of our rejoicing” and these days have become the days of our horror and grief. As I am writing this we have just bid farewell to the holiday of Shemini Atzeret and the news is reporting that over 700 of our brothers, sisters, cousins, grandparents, parents and friends are dead with thousands more injured. As of the time that I am writing this over 100 are being held captive by the murderous immoral forces of Hamas in the Gaza Strip.
One thing is very clear our loved ones have been targeted because they are Jewish. This has nothing to do with land or with occupation and everything to do with hatred of our people. Recriminations about intelligence and lack of preparedness are not appropriate at this time. What is appropriate are tears, anger, fear and so much more. What is appropriate is that we as a people continue to refuse to allow Hamas and all elements of their horrendous sort to win by backing down. What is appropriate is our continued commitment to our heritage, to our homeland and to our faith and values.
I plan to write more to all of you in the coming days. At this time I want you all to know that we as a community need to be together right now. We as a community need to be united in our resolve to support the State of Israel and all Jewish people everywhere. The Talmud teaches “All of Israel is responsible for each other.” Those words have never been more true than today. I hope that all of you will join me and Carrie on Tuesday night at City Springs in Sandy Springs (see flyer and regisatration below) as we come together as one Atlanta Jewish Community to support Israel and mourn the loss of life.
ברוך דיין האמת Praised is the Judge of Truth תהי נשמתם צרורות בצוררת החיים May their souls be bound up in everlasting life
