Don’t Let Opportunity Pass You Over

As we celebrate Passover, many Jewish community members may take the opportunity to reflect on the many ways the world still needs redemption. It can be a despairing exercise, but if we let our emotions take over, it becomes difficult to build the better world we envision. This means Passover is also an important time for us to think about hope.

October 7 has left us in trauma. We want to try to live the life of October 6. But we are in mourning. A world different than that of October 8 is now hard to imagine. In the redemptive spirit of Passover, hope envisions an open future. We shouldn’t let our vision of the future be too constrained by conventional thought and modern norms.

Hope requires perseverance. In struggling to fulfill our hopes, we inevitably face setbacks; the key is to try new strategies and not to give up.

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In 2024, Atlanta experienced several events and situations that could be considered “opportunities that got passed over,” including a potential missed opportunity in a decline in some sectors, and ongoing challenges related to affordability and homelessness.

While our economy is comparably stronger than many other cities, real estate and tourism faced challenges in 2024, potentially leading to opportunities for growth and development getting passed over.

The story of Passover reminds us of the ancestors’ journey from slavery to freedom, but it also serves as a reminder of the struggles for freedom and liberation that many still face today. The fight for human rights and justice is ongoing and we must continue to work toward a world where all people can live in safety and dignity.

Let us come together as we approach this holiday and support those in need. Remember the values that unite our community, and let us inspire each other as peace, justice, and dignity are the birthright of all people.

This is an opportunity to express your gratitude to your community, friends, family, partners and whoever helps us fulfill this mission. Generosity and dedication have made it possible for us to share our knowledge.

Don’t let this opportunity pass over because we can continue to make a difference in the lives of countless individuals within our community and even further.

Kaylene Ladinsky is the President, Editor and Managing Publisher of Atlanta Jewish Times.