Rabbi's Musings

The holiday of Sukkot comes this week to remind us that, despite life's fragility, we should rejoice in our blessings. This holiday is not only about intellectually grasping this concept. We are to construct a booth and, in so doing, physically be reminded of the paradox of enjoying transitory blessings. (Many years ago, in Miami I had to take down my sukkah because of Hurricane Wilma; talk about learning the lesson of life's impermanence!)

I know that most Reform Jews do not construct or even visit a sukkah, but this year, I hope the tide will change. As a rabbi, I like to relax after Yom Kippur. In older days, I did nothing close to relaxing as I attempted to build our sukkah. Now, I look forward to the hour (sometimes less) that it takes to construct it. Melanie then decorates it, and we are set. This is because we use a Sukkah kit as opposed to starting from scratch. It is good for the sukkah. It is good for our marriage!

The synagogue has a lovely sukkah – thank you, Men’s Club – and you are encouraged to visit. We also have Sukkot services this Friday night and Saturday morning. Chag Sukkot Sameach!