Dear Temple Beth El Community,
As we move into the final stretch of this election season, we are mindful of the wide range of emotions this election is emerging within each of us. We know that our Temple Beth El family represents a spectrum of deeply held convictions, each stemming from our shared commitment to values we hold dear. For many, this time is marked not only by anticipation but by a deep sense of weariness. The rhetoric has been intense, the issues personal, and the stakes feel high. In times like these, it’s natural to feel a sense of unease and even fatigue, a reminder of the importance of caring for our mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
In Jewish tradition, there is a sacred obligation to care for ourselves—a commandment that becomes especially relevant when life’s demands press upon us. This is not a call to dismiss the weight of our convictions, nor to retreat from our values, but rather an invitation to embrace the practices that give us resilience. Sometimes, it means choosing moments of stillness over the constant buzz of news; other times, it’s about nourishing our minds and bodies by staying connected to routines that ground us—healthy meals, restful sleep, hydration, or even setting boundaries with our screens and notifications.
This is also a time to acknowledge that it’s okay to feel worn out. Exhaustion is not a sign of weakness; rather, it signals that you are engaged, that you care, and that this matters to you. Allow yourself grace in these moments and know that, as your clergy, we are here with you and for you. If you need a space to talk or reflect, please reach out. Our clergy assistant, Renata Rosenberg, is ready to help you find time to connect with us.
And as we approach Election Day, we encourage you to consider voting not only as a civic duty but as a spiritual act—a moment where our voices join in the larger story of our community. Voting is an expression of hope for the future and of commitment to the values we hold dear. May we remember that our shared humanity transcends political choices, calling us to hold space for civility and compassion, even when we disagree.
In the days and weeks ahead, may we remember that Temple Beth El is a place where we come together, rooted in our shared traditions and connected by our collective commitment to building a better world. As we do every week, we will be gathering this Friday night at 6:13pm for Shabbat services. This Shabbat, please join us as we celebrate our country by honoring our veterans.
We are one community, bound by faith, hope, respect and care for one another. In all of the exhaustion, the uncertainty, and even the frustration, please remember that you are not alone. We are here with you, and we are here for each other.
With warmth, solidarity, and strength,
Rabbi Asher Knight
Rabbi Beth Nichols
Rabbi Lexi Erdheim
Cantor Danielle Rodnizki
