Leslie Gordon's Rosh Hashanah Message for 2024

Tradition, Resilience, Connection, Community. These are words that can describe the Jewish people. Despite the travails of this past year, I believe that we (all 12 tribes of us) can find commonality in shared experiences – as expressed through music, film, dance, books, art, storytelling and theater – as well as through our traditions. The challah, the honey, the pomegranate and the apple bear a shared meaning no matter where we find ourselves or whatever “flavor” of Judaism we choose. What will we think about during these Days of Awe? What do we aspire to? How do we want to embrace our basic values of Tikkun Olam? Tzedakah? Chesed? Kehilla?

We have much to be thankful for and yet lots of work ahead for us all. Let us join together in a commitment to doing and being better. Let’s let our New Year’s celebration embrace the diversity of the Jewish people. Whether we enjoy the privilege of sharing a table or whether we celebrate alone, we hope for a sweeter year for all, and especially, we lift up prayers for peace. When I look at the Jewish people, I see both our past and our present. We are our memories as well as our dreams – we are a storied people. Let’s be proud of who we are; proud of what we’ve contributed; proud of our shared heritage. We have great stories to tell. Let’s share them widely this year.

Leslie Gordon is the executive director at the Breman Cultural Center and Museum.