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Gladys
& Harry z”l Binder |
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Be your best. Grow yourself. Discover
and use your talents. Live up to your potential. Above all, remember who
you are and give of yourself generously to others.
 These are just some of the values my parents lived and what has always
framed their Jewish identity. Although not particularly religious, my
parents had deep feelings and strong convictions about Jewish life. The
essence of living Jewish was to be your best as an individual and to appreciate
life fully and holistically. Being a good Jew was about using your unique
gifts to better yourself and to better the world.
Every bit counts, my parents would say. Passionate about community, they
were also fierce advocates of the individual – of one’s rights
and significance. We each have something special to offer. They felt strongly
about treating people respectfully and never marginalizing individuals
to pre-conceived definitions or categories.
They viewed life through
the lense of social justice and believed individual action can change the
world. As such, they lived, breathed and exemplified this value daily! Passionate
about Israel, world affairs and community, they were intellectual, soulful
and generous in their giving in big and small ways. Dad was a powerful fundraiser
for UJA Federation and both himself and Mom visited Israel often. Mom always
had an open heart and home, welcoming friends and strangers to our extended
family.
My parents believed in possibility
– shunning unnecessary boundaries and limiting thinking. They encouraged
us to have the conviction of self so that we too can take a stand for what
matters in life. They taught us to find our own passions and have the fortitude
to make our own difference in the world.
These are just some of
the lessons my parents taught me about what it is to be Jewish. It’s
this legacy that they would want future generations to carry forward so
that, as Jews, we will shine individually and as a people.
Tikkun Olam. Each and
all of us have a part in creating a better world.
Written
by: Louise Binder (daughter)
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