Temple Gates of Prayer- Rabbi Thaler's Message

FOR ZION'S SAKE I WILL NOT BE SILENT

FOR JERUSALEM'S SAKE I WILL NOT BE STILL- ISAIAH 62:1

From the Rabbi's Desk..

      Special needs are on my mind. This past Saturday night (March 28) we showed the film "Praying with Lior" which is now available in our Urieff film library.
     The next evening, Shelly Handel was honored for his continuing efforts on behalf of Camp Ramah in the Berkshires. Shelly was instrumental in introducing Anne Berman and Fay Tomick to the world of Ramah and their lead gift made it possible for Bet Breira to be built and for the program to start. The word Breira means alternative. It is an alternative to the regular camping program, one suited to the needs of children with developmental and emotional issues. Shelly represents the Metropolitan Region of the Federation of Jewish Men's Clubs on the Berkshire's Board of Directors and has embraced the Breira Program as a personal project. It is gratifying to see these children enjoying camp and, where possible, being integrated into the regular program and warmly accepted by the rest of the camp population.
     Here within the walls of our Temple, children with varying disabilities attend class every Sunday morning with our own Susan Smith and Faygie Sillman. Susan and Faygie are special education teachers with endless patience and kind hearts.
     Lior is very loving and is much loved by his siblings. He also exudes a child's sweet innocence. I find similar qualities in the children at our Temple. The children and families in our program benefit greatly and truly appreciate what we do for and with the children. One need only attend the Bar or Bat Mitzvah of one of the children. You will not only rejoice with the family but you will be inspired and share a deep sense of pride in being a member of Temple Gates of Prayer. It is important to understand how beneficial this program is to us and how we need it. Every so often we need a dose of a child's innocence. It is good to experience a child's uncomplicated and unsophisticated view of the world. We need them in our building to remind us that every child is a blessing, that every child is unique, that every child can and should be embraced by a community.
     The other night I reminded those in attendance that there is a blessing to be recited when you see someone who is somewhat different. Praised are You Lord our God, King of the universe who makes people different. This blessing reminds us that in God's eyes even those who are different are a blessing. In our eyes they should be seen as such. Judaism teaches us to cherish and bless those differences.
               Rabbi Albert Thaler

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