Where's the Ruach at?: Part Two

You might recall our last encounter in which we discussed the cruciality of balance and kindness in having a spirit-filled community. Although these prerequisites may be significant, now more than ever, it is important to make note of the true reason why the ruach needs to be revived to its fullest potential. 

A little bit more than a month ago (but what feels like a year), the terrorist organization, Hamas, led an attack against Israel and its Jewish nation by air, land, and sea. 

Whether by breaking through borders, kidnapping and murdering innocent civilians, or destroying buildings and homes with rockets and bombs, the regime has been, and currently is, the driving force behind the death of almost 2,000 Israelis. 

While the Israeli Defense Force (IDF) is indeed a determined, intelligent, and steadfast army, Jews across the globe cannot solely rely on them to save our people. It is through our sense of community, Tikkun Olam, Tzedakah, and more, that we ensure the future of our sacred religion, just as we have throughout our history as a Jewish nation. 

From rallies taking place across the country, Israelis opening up their homes to displaced families, our very own school taking in new students from Israel seeking refuge, and so on, should only reassure us of our identity, and encourage us to do the same. 

Let this onslaught of violence against our people serve as a wake-up call, not only to non-Jews but to us as well, that we may continue with our beautiful rituals and culture, despite the silencing forces that surround us. 

This past weekend, we resisted. Together at the In-Town Shabbaton, we brought in Shabbat not only with ruach but also with kavanah (intention). We sang and danced for the soldiers who cannot, united as a school for the Israeli children who are missing theirs, and most importantly, we carried on with our tradition, the very thing Hamas aims to dismantle. 

For the first time in a long time, I saw a glimpse of the old RMHA. The sudden burst of ruach came as a result of a horrifying awakening, however, may us Tigers see it as a signal to proceed on our path to achieving vitality and resilience. Continue to sing, continue to dance, continue to cheer, and most of all, continue to carry on the Jewish legacy.