Shabbat Shalom,

This week, our local community was shaken by the tragic shooting in Pawtucket. When violence erupts so close to home, it pierces the sense of safety we work so hard to build for our families and our community. It reminds us, painfully and clearly, how fragile and fleeting life can be.

Shabbat arrives each week as a sacred pause — a reminder that time itself is sacred. Yet moments like this compel us to recognize that time is also precious and never guaranteed. The ordinary embraces, the quick goodbyes, the daily routines we sometimes rush through — these are not small things.

Tradition teaches in Genesis 2:7 that God breathed into Adam the breath of life. Life begins with breath — and a hug is, in many ways, the sharing of breath. When we embrace someone we love, we draw close enough to feel that breath. A hug is a quiet affirmation: “You matter. Your life is precious. I am grateful you are here.”

In a world that can feel unpredictable and at times frightening, one of the most powerful responses we have is to hold our children, our grandchildren, our partners, our friends — every single day. I see the power of a hug daily when parents drop their children off at our Early Childhood Center; when two members hug in the JCC fitness center when they have not seen each other for a while, and; even after a basketball game in our gym when players give that half-hug handshake and chest bump.

So, do not wait for a special occasion. Give someone a hug today.

As we light Shabbat candles this evening, may their glow remind us of the light within each of us. May we choose life — not only in grand gestures, but in daily acts of tenderness. May we hold one another a little tighter this week.

Wishing you a peaceful and meaningful Shabbat.

Shabbat Shalom, 
Harris Chorney 
Interim CEO