by Deborah Ferguson
Unfortunately, this story is becoming increasingly common (much like school shootings). This past weekend, Congregation Beth Israel faced the unthinkable. During a live stream of their Saturday services, a terrorist broke into their synagogue and took the individuals inside hostage. The individuals included the rabbi of the congregation.
It doesn’t matter why this mad man decided to target this temple. It doesn’t matter his motive. It doesn’t even matter the outcome. What matters is that it happened, has happened before within the US, and will continue to happen until we find the answer to stop these horrible tragedies from occurring.
We are not perfect. We are also not alone. Each person can make a difference. However, together, we can change the world. Let’s think together and act together to stop this madness and hateful acts against the Jewish community. Here are some ways we can continue to stand up against hate and anti-Semitism in our community:
- United We Stand
When one person is the victim of antisemitism, we are all the victim of anti-Semitism. As a community, when our brothers and sisters across the country deal with hate, we must all come together in unity. We stand united, as a people with a common purpose and a common goal. As we stand united, we demonstrate the strength in numbers that means we will never back down. United in solidarity. We live together or we die alone.
- Teach Our Children
Of course, we must teach our Jewish children of the tragedies we have endured throughout history. We must prepare them for what may come at them as the world continues to change. However, teaching our children extends beyond our communities. It means to teach the children of the world. Hate is not innate. It is learned. Teach our children to love. Teach them to accept what is different. Teach them that they do not need to understand everything. However, they must accept it and let everyone live in peace. If we teach our children, they will change the world for future generations.
- Answer the Call
It is not enough to only offer thoughts and prayers in the face of tragedy – we must act. No one is asking you to be a hero. However, answer the call to be the change you want to see in the world. Work with law enforcement, local schools and communities, and organizations to help find solutions to these problems. Do not sit back and wait for someone else to do the work.
- Be Kind, Always
Kindness is contagious. When you are kind, others will be kind in return. It can be difficult to stay true to this, especially when others may not offer kindness to you at first. But today across America we remember Martin Luther King Jr., and we must honor his work by continuing it in our own community. When faced with hatred, or violence – we must respond with love and even understanding. Your job – to be the example of kindness we need to change the world.
Final Thoughts
The problem of anti-Semitism and hatred did not occur overnight, and we will not solve it overnight. However, if we work together and take these steps towards a solution, we can change the world. One small act of kindness at a time.