Chesed
“Do justice, love loving-kindness, walk humbly with God”, Micah 6:8
This month’s trait of “loving kindness” describes TE so well that it probably doesn’t need to be improved, but only commented upon. Jewish tradition elevates deeds of loving-kindness to the highest possible rank among the soul traits. While only some problems have solutions, all problems are alleviated by the loving responses of those around us. These recent weeks have shown an out-pouring of chesed from the TE community as we have participated together in many Shivas, fed the hungry at Abraham’s Tent, made scarves for kids in need, and supported each other during the recent flood in the Sanctuary building. Chesed goes beyond merely being nice. It involves acts that sustain one another. In the Jewish view, it isn’t enough to hold warm thoughts in our heart or to wish each other well. We are meant to offer real sustenance to one another. At TE we can do that in innumerable ways: money (have you pledged to One Campus yet?), time (can you help run the Second night sedar dinner?), empathy, service (can you participate in the “Kenyan Make a Kit” for girls on March 1), an open ear (do you want to be on next year’s Board of Directors?), manual assistance (could you provide a ride to Friday services for someone who needs it?), a letter written (can you do some volunteer work in the office?), a call made, or even give blood (have you signed up for the TE Blood Drive on March 12th). For any of these opportunities please get in touch with me or the event leader.
This month remember to seek an opportunity each day to:
- Show a smile to at least five people that you pass by.
- Lend an ear to someone that you know could use some company.
- Make it a point to ask someone how his/her day is going — whether you know that person or not.