From the Desk of the Federation Executive Director: With Gratitude 3/24/23

By Shelley Hubal

It’s called “My Unsung Hero.” NPR describes these mini-podcasts as “Stories of people whose kindness left a lasting impression.” I like to listen to one or two episodes in the morning while I exercise. Each story is a reminder that every individual and every act of kindness – no matter how big or small – has the power to transform the world. 

In a few weeks, we will gather and retell the story of the Exodus of the Jewish people from Egypt. At the end of the seder, we sing “Dayenu.” This is a song of gratitude that reminds us that at each step what God gave us “would have been enough.” 

Listening to the “My Unsung Hero” stories is my daily reminder that God gives us what we need. Sometimes it comes in the form of a teacher or a stranger on a train or a medical provider. Whatever the form, everyday miracles and acts of kindness are often right in front of us. Our job is to acknowledge them and say “Dayenu.”

Nobody walks this earth without struggle and I know it is impossible to feel grateful for every challenge we face, but when you practice “Dayenu” in some form every day, your connection to God becomes illuminated. Wishing you all a Pesach filled with good health and lots of love. That, along with some matzah ball soup, ought to be enough!