Kol hakavod

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Flowers and signs sit at a memorial across the street from the Chabad of Poway synagogue on April 28 in Poway, Calif. (Denis Poroy/AP)

UPDATE: Apparently there was a candle light vigil at Agudat Achim in Schenectady last night. I wish I could have been there.

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Vigil at Agudat Achim, Schenectady

As we probably know, there was yet another act of violence in a house of worship. This time at the Chabad of Poway synagogue in California.  This is a short video from Rabbi Yisroel Goldstein, the spiritual leader of the community. He was shot and has lost a finger. His courage, bravery, and spiritual generosity is amazing. Also, we must remember Lori Gilbert-Kaye who was killed in the shooting. May her memory be a blessing.

We are all in this together, he says – we are all in this together. Christian, Jew, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh, spiritual but not religious, agnostic, atheist. We are all human and we should be united – not killing one another. Yet – we do a pretty good job of hating and killing one another. Eventually no one will be left.

We should all be asking ourselves what we can do to make the world better and then get on with starting that work. One good way is to get involved in interfaith activities. Here in the Capital District I recommend the Interfaith Community of Schenectady and/or Schenectady Clergy Against Hate. If you live in another part of the country, see what options exist for you. Or begin a movement… our world depends on it.

Kol hakavod is a Hebrew phrase that is used to denote honoring someone, or respecting them for their actions.  And Rabbi Goldstein there is no better phrase to use.  May his actions inspire us all.

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3 thoughts on “Kol hakavod”

  1. I agree it is critical to remember That we are all human. Positive energy and actions towards one another is much more rewarding than hate and aggression.

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    • Reading your comment reminds me of the importance of travel, domestic and international both, in regard to how we see one another. It is a luxury to be sure, but I imagine a world made broader by more people being able to go near and far. And those desiring to do so.

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  2. Pingback: What’s Up in the Neighborhood, May 4 2019 – Chuck The Writer

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