Dear SJC Members and friends:
I wanted to take this opportunity to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving! My dad always said, of all our holidays in the U.S., he likes this American holiday best. As a secular holiday, it belongs to everyone who calls the U.S.A. home, regardless of religion or ethnicity. It’s about remembering what we are thankful for – whether that means being thankful for one’s family, friends, situation, health – you get to pick. It’s about coming together with people you care about (or deliberately spending it by yourself because that’s the recharge you need!). It’s about eating, resting, being officially allowed to relax.
This Thanksgiving I’m grateful for being among like-minded people. And I’m grateful for SJC as my Jewish home. In fact, this is the perfect opportunity to express my gratitude for a number of individuals who in particular stand out (in no particular order):
- Thank you, Jeff, for researching and leading a stimulating and enjoyable Shabbat on Jewish Indigeneity last Friday
- Thank you, Malya, for lending us your voice again and again – especially on Rosh Hashanah and Kol Nidre
- Thank you, Board members – Tom, Jeff, Amanda, and Irina – for giving of your time and wisdom
- A special shout-out to Irina, for serving as our Treasurer with integrity and knowledge
- Thank you, Moranne, for stepping above and beyond in thoughtfully and conscientiously leading our school, as well as our upcoming Hanukkah party
- Thank you, Fred, for stepping up to the Membership Secretary position, welcoming new members, and thank you Deb, for providing your continuing guidance
- Thank you, Judi, for leading our Shalom Sunday Parent Discussion group and for serving as SJC’s Sage Advisor
- Thank you, Julia, for leading our Bnai Mitzvah program yet again
- Thank you, Tina, for the flowers and other décor that you provide to make our gatherings warm and welcoming
- Thank you, Shelby, for your great marketing ideas
- In fact – THANK YOU to all our volunteers – and if you haven’t volunteered yet – I encourage you to join us! Not only is it rewarding, but you’ll make new friends and strengthen your connection to secular humanistic Judaism.
In closing, thank you to my whole SJC Family – for your friendship and membership. May you all experience a warm, welcoming, and relaxing Thanksgiving!
Best wishes,
Erica
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