March/April 2010 Bulletin Message
by Rabbi Mark Dov Shapiro

For Your Consideration
Rabbi Mark Dov Shapiro

I recently read Senator Edward Kennedy's autobiography, True Compass, and many adjectives come to mind as I reflect on the story he tells: impressive, fascinating, honest, and smart. More than anything else, however, the book is tender! As much as it is the tale of a powerful, no-nonsense politician, it is also the story of Teddy, the youngest child of nine, the littlest one whose affection for his family shines through every page.

There is plenty of politics. The book focuses on decades of Washington personalities and issues. But, from the prologue onward, the Senator is clear: "My life has always been inseparable from that of my family. When I sit at the front porch of our Cape house, in the sunshine and sea-freshened air, I think of them often...I remember how each of us, distinct and autonomous from one another though we were, melded wholeheartedly into a family, a self-contained universe of love and deepest truths. My story is their story, and theirs is mine. And so it shall be in these pages."

Of course, the Kennedy's never brought their energy together around a Seder table at the Cape. But as Passover approaches this year, I'd like to think that each of us at Sinai is looking forward to an event that will make memories.

We may not write books about our Seders in years to come, but hopefully whatever we do at our Seder tables can be significant. For the Seder and the Haggadah are quite extraordinary opportunities for family, friends, learning, history, values, dreams, laughter, and eating. At its best, you could say a Seder combines the spirit of Rosh Hashanah dinners, Thanksgiving, and a little bit of Super Bowl night.

Our Jewish story becomes the occasion for making Jewish memories that can last a lifetime. Once again this year, our website will link you to new insights, readings, games, and even recipes for Passover. You know I would love to see you at our congregational service on Tuesday, March 30 at 10:30 a.m. Most of all, make the Seder count. It's your opportunity to shape a Jewish moment with your heart and soul.

Prior Bulletin Messages from the Rabbi are available on this site.