Rabbi Bruce's Reflections on Life

 Dear Friends, As we conclude 2023 and conclude the reading of the Biblical narrative about Joseph, we read that Joseph finally reveals his identity to his brothers. Rabbinic commentaries discuss the reason for Joseph's decision to  tell  his brothers that "I am Joseph, is our father still alive?"  His brother Judah gives a remarkable speech where he discussed their father and Joseph's younger brother Benjamin. I believe  that something about the passion with  which Judah  spoke, moved Joseph to tears and to reconnect with his brothers.  Despite what his brothers had done to him when they  threw him in  a pit, Judah's speech shows that that at least, Judah, had changed. As we conclude 2023 and think  about our own capacity for change, I hope that one of our  New Year's resolutions will be to be willing to accept that people can change and that part of being human is growing and evolving. Too  often we only remember things that people have done to  us and hold

 Dear Friends, In a world that needs a dose of hope, I hope  you  will read the following with which some of you  will  be familiar.  (See below) It is a reminder that if we are willing to see, believe, and internalize the message,  then in fact, Santa Claus does exist and we can celebrate joy in our world.  You better watch out and better not pout since then Santa won't leave you a special gift and we will be exiled to another year of coal in our stockings. I hope that all  of us enjoy a wonderful holiday season and a  more peaceful 2024, filled with happiness, hope,  love, generosity, and devotion. B'shalom, Rabbi Bruce Aft Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus Dear Editor — I am 8 years old. Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus. Papa says, “If you see it in The Sun, it’s so.” Please tell me the truth, is there a Santa Claus? Virginia O’Hanlon Virginia, your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age. They do not be

  Dear Friends, As we celebrate the seventh night of Chanukah I wanted to share a couple thoughts about religious freedom. I wonder how many of us feel that we are really free to express our opinions about key issues facing Jews and Israel..  Many  of us are concerned about antisemitism and we are aware of the increase in acts of antisemitism in today's world. What I want to write about is whether we are allowing each other to be free to express diverse opinions.  We know that families and friends are facing crises in their relationships because of social media posts and other statements about current conditions in Israel today. As I think about these challenges, I have turned to the lyrics from Light One Candle by Peter, Paul, and Mary. Please note the lyrics below and particularly those that are in red.  (Btw, you may  want to search for a link to listen to them sing the song.  It is very nostalgic for those of us who grew up listening to and watching Peter, Paul, and Mary) As we