Good Shabbos!

This week brings us a special Shabbos, Called “Shabbat Chazon.” (The Shabbat of Vision) Shabbat Chazon is the Shabbat preceding the tragic 9th of Av, which this year falls out on this coming Monday Night, when we recall our experiences of so many tragedies throughout Jewish History. The 9th of Av is commemorated through fasting, prayers, self reflection and a re-dedication to our commitment towards Goodness and Heritage. Our tradition tells us that one day, if we play our cards right (through positive actions and choices) The 9th of Av will be transformed from a day of sadness to a day of rejoicing and celebration. Our Rabbis teach us that our Second Holy Temple was destroyed because of Baseless Hatred towards one another. This point is so profound. Rebbe Nachman of Breslov teaches that if you believe you can destroy, you must believe that you can build! We all know how to project baseless hatred, and look where that got us, after all, we are STILL mourning on the 9th of Av. Let’s take this Shabbat of Vision, to really think about our lives. Take time to find the hatred, and replace it with BASELESS LOVE!! A re-dedication to our heritage, and increased level of INTENTIONAL acts of kindness and BASELESS LOVE is what will help us rebuild the Temple! BASELESS LOVE is what fixes. We know we can destroy. Let’s learn to KNOW that we can build. Through our re-dedication to Baseless love and dedication to our heritage, may our world merit to stop the mourning and instead, enjoy a celebration this 9th of Av, in the holy city of Jerusalem!

Shabbat Shalom!!!

Derek Gormin
Director of Education