Finding Hope and Resiliency In Challenging Times
This past year has been unfathomably difficult for the Jewish people. Israel’s war against terror continues to rage on with miraculous successes along with painful loss. The remaining hostages in captivity cause tremendous anguish within our hearts. Acts of antisemitism are on the rise globally, and Jewish students increasingly feel unsafe on their own campuses. It seems as though much of the world has turned its back on Israel and the Jews, instead offering support to those who seek to harm us. In these moments of pain and uncertainty, it is easy to feel overwhelmed and lost.
How, then, can we find strength and resiliency in such challenging times? The answer lies in our unity, in our unbreakable community bonds. We are an Am Echad b’Lev Echad – One Nation With One Heart. Through standing together, we draw strength from each other, becoming a shield against the darkness. Our resilience is found in our history, collective identity, and in the knowledge that we are never truly alone because Hashem is always with us.
We must continue to support one another, to speak out against hatred and violence, and to ensure that no one is left to face their fears or challenges alone. This is particularly important for individuals with disabilities, the most vulnerable members of our community, who feel but may not fully comprehend the uncertainty and insecurity of these times. Libenu believes that fostering a community that embraces individuals with disabilities, ensuring that every member feels a true sense of belonging, purpose, and safety, brings us together and strengthens all of us in turn. In unity, we find the resilience to face whatever comes our way.
As we welcome the new year, let us resolve to strengthen the bonds that hold us together, and to embody the spirit of hope and perseverance that has carried our people through the most difficult of times. We pray that Hashem will grant all of K’lal Yisroel a year of peace, strength, good health, and happiness.
From all of us at Libenu, we wish you and yours a Shana Tova U’Metuka – a good, sweet new year – and G’mar Chatima Tova – inscribed in the book of life, good health, peace, and prosperity.
Sincerely,
Shana Erenberg, Ph.D.
CEO
