Dear Friends,
As the assault on Congregation Beth Israel in Texas unfolds, we are once again left grappling with the reality of targeted hatred directed at the Jewish community.
As a Jewish organization, we sadly understand the strong tidal currents beneath casual antisemitism as well as the impact of caustic language left unchecked. Indifference paves the road to violence. And so we are saddened, but not surprised, when Jewish people are victimized in their sacred spaces.
Many of us may feel helpless and uncertain of how to help our Jewish community in Texas and may even be unsure of what we are feeling. The most important thing is to stay rooted and centered in our resolve to be there with and for each other; no matter our religious background, ethnicity, or country of origin.
We also fear that once again a broad brush will be painted across the entire Muslim community, only serving to create division. We are about to commemorate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and everything he believed in. In the spirit of Dr. King, we cannot have a society at peace with itself when so many people do not have peace within themselves. The path of healing must be walked together. We need silence when silence is needed, words when words are needed, and action when action is needed. It is the only way from darkness to light.
B’shalom (In peace),
Rabbi Will
If you are in need of help or would like to speak with someone in our Counseling program, please reach out to JFS at (206) 861-3152 or visit our website – https://www.jfsseattle.org/get-help/counseling-and-addiction-services/
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