|
Everyone deserves a chance in life but not everyone is given
equal opportunity. We are lucky and we count our blessings
every day. The ability to give is part of what we are grateful
for.
Whether it’s financially or with our time, tzedakah is,
and always has been, part of our lives.
Perhaps it is because we grew up with these values.
Lynn’s grandparents came from Russia and settled in Saskatchewan.
They knew what it was like to start over in a new country
so they, in turn, always reached out to help other newcomers.
Likewise, Brent’s parents, who live in Calgary, instilled
the values of tzedakah and taught their children by example.
We in turn, teach our own children tzedakah by doing. Our
children, Bram, Kate and Zack, all do their part, whether
it’s feeding the homeless, establishing a brand new initiative
on campus, helping Somali children, or working at the Reena
Foundation.
There are so many important needs in the community but one
particular passion for us is the fight against intolerance.
It’s time for the general community to get to know us
by our shared values, not just by our differences. These values
related to freedom, civil liberties and respect for human
dignity, will bind us with other like-minded cultures. Connecting
with others on this level will also be key to preserving our
own Jewish identity and culture.
Our hope for the next generation is that the Jewish community
will thrive in a world that respects both our differences
and our similarities. We all must do our part to ensure that
this happens.
|
