Dear Friends,
This time of year, life seems to be filled with an abundance of transitions. This week there were funerals and births in the community, there were people traveling to and from destinations all over the world for holidays, and the seasons are changing (sort of). Unlike the common phrase “the more things change, the more they stay the same” it often actually feels more like “the more things change, the more things change”. In our modern era not only do we seem to be in a constant state of flux, but we seem to be in a constant state of rapid change. What are we supposed to do when the world seems like a merry-go-round spinning out of control? A mentor of mine once suggested that the more things change, the more we need to hold on tight to those things that never change. Things like love of family, good friends, our heritage, and eternal truths. The sukkah hut reminds us that we are only here temporarily and we need to take time out periodically from our busy daily routine to focus on spending time with our family and friends, enjoying eating together, pursuing spiritual endeavors, and simply reconnecting with nature and our Creator.
I am reminded of the amusing story when the great philanthropist Harry Fischel, OB”M, visited Rabbi Yisrael Meir Kagan, OB”M, known more famously by the title of his work on proper speech “The Chafetz Chaim”. When the famous American philanthropist saw the very humble living quarters of the venerable Rabbi, he asked him, “Where’s all your furniture?” The sage replied to him “Where’s all your furniture?” The American visitor said, “Well I’m just passing through for a short time, so there is no need for me to have furniture.” The wise Rabbi replied with a twinkle in his eye, “I too am only here for a short time.” (He lived to be a 100 years old, hence why I don’t worry about my furniture so much).
While it is certainly fine to have nice things and be comfortable in our homes, Sukkot reminds us what the higher priorities are in life. If we can internalize these truths, then we may be able to reach the level of what is described in our prayer book on Shabbat and holidays “Succat shlomechah – your peaceful sukkah”.
May we all be blessed with genuine peace of mind and serenity throughout our very busy and hectic lives.
Shabbat Shalom and Shanah Tovah,
Rabbi Elisha Paul
Head of School
