It took a war for me to see what was right here under my nose! It took a war for me to understand the true meaning of community and unity. 630 days ago, the BES family came together on Friday night to create a ruach and atmosphere that really is something unique to our community. I came away from that evening, having had some very moving and meaningful conversations, knowing I wanted to give back more. From there, my involvement grew and grew until today, where I find myself sitting in the Warden’s box.
This week’s parsha, Chukat, presents us with the enigmatic mitzvah of the Parah Adumah, the Red Heifer, a ritual that defies human logic and understanding. It cleanses the impure yet paradoxically renders those involved in its preparation impure. This seemingly illogical command, given directly by G-d, demands our absolute faith and acceptance, transcending our limited human comprehension.
In these challenging times for Israel and our people, we, like the Parah Adumah, are called upon to act with unwavering faith, even when understanding seems distant. The events of October 7th, and the ongoing plight of our hostages are unfathomable. Yet, the response of our communities, both locally and globally, has been a testament to the profound unity and resilience of the Jewish people. We have witnessed an outpouring of support, a collective embrace of our shared destiny, and a determination to stand with Israel. This unity, which I have personally experienced through my increased involvement in our community, from the Israel Solidarity trip to our Yom Ha’atzmaut celebrations and so much more, mirrors the very essence of the Parah Adumah’s message – that true strength lies in our ability to transcend individual understanding and act as one, driven by a deep-seated faith and commitment.
Just as the Parah Adumah brought purification, our collective prayers and actions, our unwavering support for Israel, and our relentless advocacy for the return of our hostages, will, with G-d’s help, bring about a new era of peace and security. Let us continue to draw strength from one another, to offer communal support, and to hold onto the unshakeable hope that our beloved hostages will soon return home to their families and to us. May we merit to see that day very soon.
Shabbat Shalom
Gidi Matlin
Warden Croxdale