Dear Friends:
Some of you may know of a lovely creation myth by Isaac Luria (the Ari, 1534-1572.) In it, G-d placed throughout the world vessels filled with light. Due to human activity, the vessels burst leaving shards of divinity scattered all over the world. This myth teaches us that the world is a mess, but yet is packed with hidden treasures, divine in their content. Yet, we must search endlessly for these hidden shards. The task to find these treasures means that we must wade through our untidy world righting wrongs, finding and conquering evil and injustice until the world is redeemed by collecting enough of the sparks to liberate G-d. We don’t sit idly by while others suffer, rather we resist the bad and work to do the good, to make a difference in the world.
It is not in the nature of things for the good to rise automatically. For the good to renew itself takes conscious effort. With only six weeks left of our program, it is obvious that your stamina in searching for light has not diminished at all. There were 119 very satisfied guests for dinner last night, and 12 (including 4 women) who slept over.
By creating an atmosphere of community, OOTC is finding the light. Last night, I saw many examples. Volunteers calling guests by their names, or finding a moment to chat, or re-acquainting with a guest who has not been seen in a little while, welcoming new ones, going the extra mile when someone is struggling with bags or walker. You are all doing such a wonderful job.
Also, exciting news. Norma’s son, Adam Bender, who volunteered at OOTC for many seasons, graduated top of his class in infantry training and also was awarded the more personally prestigious "Comradeship Award", voted on by his peers. Adam is now stationed in Petawawa, as part of the Royal Canadian Regiment. Yasher Koach, Adam! Your determination to better the world is admirable!
Some of our productive MAC students will be missed next week, but we wish you all a wonderful holiday.
See you soon, Cindy
PS Some of my predictions of Jan 21st, have come true. One of the female guests has permanent lodging in the west end. Julio never returned. It is snowing because my husband is away! Oh, where is the shovel???? Take care out there!
Responses:
Dearest Cindy, Always an inspiring missive from you! How many people have said you should have been a rabbi?I can't believe we have only six weeks left. I have had my head occupied with my own challenges and I am heartened to think about change and spring, and how soon my courageous snow drops and crocuses will be peeping out at me! Thank you for mentioning Adam. I am so proud of his commitment and integrity. Serving at Out of the Cold certainly contributed to his sense of humility, good fortune and purpose to make the world a better place. The privilege of serving and knowing such fine volunteers and guests has been a very important part of my life and I feel blessed. Thank you for your thoughtful and inspiring leadership.Take care, Norma
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