By Rabbi Irwin Wiener
Guest Columnist
It hardly seems possible that another year is now history. Over the years, I have seen the goings and comings of so many, the joys and disappointment, the frustrations and rewards. And now they will become memories – some pleasant and some not.
All of us have shared many a laugh and for sure, shed many tears. Through it all we have endured.
Yes, we have all shared a great deal. Some have witnessed tragedies and some occasions of joy.
Whether it was hospital visits or hospice attention or funerals or weddings, baby namings and anniversaries, we joined together as a community and participated in all the milestones of life’s journey. We are surely destined to share so much more.
There is so much to be thankful for. We have life and health, for the most part.
Sure, we all have ailments and we certainly don’t hesitate to share the episodes of pain. But there are the friendships that remained strong and new ones that were developed. They are cherished friendships because they represent the very best in us.
The men and women who extend themselves on a daily basis blend together to minister to our needs.
And let us not forget God, who endows us with the ability to appreciate all that we have as a community. Names of people who contribute to our effectiveness may never be known. They are the unsung heroes of human capabilities. So, yes there are so many to thank as we wind down another year.
Each time I see gratefulness helps me understand the value and purpose for which we were created.
My prayer, as we turn a new page in our chapter of togetherness, is that it will continue to be one of comfort and success. Let us all pray that the new year will bring contentment and that we will grow even closer as we continue our spiritual pilgrimage.
I extend my prayer to the men and women who serve our country here at home and on distant shores. May they all return home in peace and well-being.
And may they find the light of freedom burning even brighter than when they left because of their dedication and service. I offer the wish that all communities will continue to prosper and be united in friendship. I send all these prayers to you as we journey to destinations of comfort.
Enjoy the warmth of the comfort we offer during the cold, stark winter. There is so much agony and pain in the world. Hate has replaced civility. Accusations have surfaced that give us pause as we reflect on our behavior as a people and as a nation.
Perhaps 2019 will find us more in tune with each other so that the dream that became a reality 242 years ago, and is still a beacon to so many, will continue to flourish.
Let the legacy we leave enable those who follow to be able to say – “this they built for us.” Join with friends, family members and neighbors in the New Year to fulfill that commitment so that our future will be secure.
Stay warm, and stay healthy. We are here, will always be here, because God’s hand continues to lead us in the path of faith as determined by our ancestors
Rabbi Dr. Irwin Wiener, DD, is national chaplain of Jewish War Veterans-USA and he is the spiritual leader of Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation.
