Cheryl Dorchinsky's Holiday Message

During these challenging times it seems easy to wish the time away in the hope we can get back to how things were before COVID.

I am learning that “hope” is more than wishing for things to pass. Hope is reframing my thinking. It is trying to cultivate a new mindset in the here and now.

It is a cliche, but a truism that the only thing we have with any certainty is the present, no matter how difficult that may be. By reframing my thinking, I am learning to turn the present into a gift. I’m trying to grasp the present and not “wish it away.” I want to use what I am learning to strengthen my family and my wonderful community. Our interaction with others may have changed in form, from in-person to Facebook, Zoom or a myriad of other social media. Yet, as humans we are still able to laugh, cry and help others, whether it means filling food pantry shelves, organizing and distributing Sonovia masks throughout the community, or offering up advice to a struggling friend. For example, in the Jewish Moms of Atlanta Facebook group, I have seen mitzvahs occur often and at lightning speed as mothers help each other and the community navigate a myriad of challenges

Greek philosopher Heraclitus once said that no one swims in the same river twice. It’s one of my favorite sayings. We tend to view a river as the same body of water. It is easy to forget that we are looking at infinite droplets that evaporate, change and meet us again in the form of rain refreshing the earth.

So no matter our circumstances, our friends, family and wider community are also in an invisible process of change.

As we enter the new year 5781, let us find ways to live in the moment together, build bridges and unite during these uncertain times. Wishing you a meaningful and happy new year.

Cheryl Dorchinsky is founding executive director of the Atlanta Israel Coalition and manages several social media groups.