In this week’s message I talk about the horrific events that took place in Buffalo last weekend, and I share some of the emotions I’m feeling as my my daughter prepares to become a bat mitzvah tomorrow.

It can be easy to be pessimistic about the future these days, but all one has to do is look at Alexandria and her peers across our community to know we’re going to be better than fine. So Mazel Tov to Alexandria, and Mazel Tov to all of the young members of our community who make it strong and vibrant today, and will make it even stronger and more vibrant in the future.

Until next time, I wish you a safe, peaceful, and joyous Shabbat.

PS: In case you missed the latest podcast release from Jewish Rhody Media, here’s a link to Breakout Sessions. This episode features an interview with a former white supremacist and a Sikh, who are advocates and experts in navigating and understanding hate and the ways it manifests in our communities.