From the Rabbi's Desk

The modern State of Israel is about to celebrate its 60th anniversary. Indeed, we have been blessed to witness the creation and/or the development of Eretz Yisrael with its growth in population and tremendous creativity. In 60 years, may of the dreams and aspirations of our ancestors throughout the ages have been fulfilled.

During my lifetime, I have seen stronger ties being forged between the Reform Jewish community of  the Diaspora and Israel. (I was one of the signatories of the original ARZA Constitution at its first conference.) Out Progressive/Reform movement in Israel has made great strides forward and continues to evolve.

Israel's accomplishments over the past 60 years are awesome, technological, agricultural, medical, cultural and economic! She has become one of  the most dynamic countries in the world. However, as we all are aware, many goals and aspects of the Zionist dream still have not been realized, most important among them being peaceful co-existence with her neighbors. A tremendous amount of initiatives and work lie ahead for both Israel's citizens and her supporters alike.

In Pirke Avot (Ethics of the Fathers), 60 represents old age. There is a variant reading that states: ben shisim lochochma- 60 for wisdom. What do you see when you view Israel at 60? The truth is that one can see something tired and "old" or something wise and venerable. Both sides are plausible. Being wise really is coming to terms with how old you are. We have moved beyond the "first flush of Israel's youth." Israel has matured.

Pirke Avot also states that "30" is the age of koach- strength of power. One can view Israel at 60 as having reached her second stage of power. Having learned how to use power, maybe this is the phase in which to deploy power with wisdom. After all, it can be said that 60 is the new 30!

Happy Yom Ha-atzmaut...

                        
                                                                                                                               Rabbi Garson Herzfeld

Rabbi Herzfeld also requests that you please keep him informed regarding members who might appreciate a call or visit, especially those who are ill or are hospitalized. Please phone the rabbi, or leave a message in the office.