Communities - Part 2
A few weeks ago, I wrote about the importance of communities in our lives — during good times and bad times. It was a good time. My daughters were both thriving, my family was healthy, and our business was growing.
Things changed quickly. When I woke up last Saturday morning, my phone was buzzing with texts and calls. There was a terrorist attack on Israel. Thousands injured and killed. Hostages. I turned on CNN in disbelief. How could this be happening in 2023?
We just passed the 50-year anniversary of the Yom Kippur war, of which I have memories, but was too young to really understand. Now this, today. I couldn't believe it. I have family in Israel.
I was shattered, paralyzed. What could I do? I reached out to family and friends. I donated to JUF’s Israel Emergency fund.
I still had a gut wrenching feeling inside.
Thankfully, my community was a source of comfort. Constant communication from JUF and my synagogue. Friends and family gathering together to give each other support. An outpouring of love on Facebook and Instagram, phone calls and texts.
My community was strong and present.
My Beth Emet community was having a healing service and I desperately wanted to be there. However, I was in Florida. Stephen found that the Delray Chabad was having a solidarity Friday night Shabbat service. We did not know one person but the Rabbi.
The minute we walked in the door, we became part of this community. We were all there for the same reason. Healing. Hope. There were hugs, we lit Shabbat candles, prayed for the quick return of the hostages, those in mourning and a speedy recovery for those injured. The rabbi said we could spend our time asking “Why?” but we should be asking “What?” — What can you do during this time of need?
The beautiful thing about communities is they're always around when you need them the most. Whether it’s your traditional community or a new one.
Thank you all for checking in and helping me during this difficult time. Your words mean so much.
Shari
Shari Greco Reiches
Shari co-founded Rappaport Reiches Capital Management with one goal - to maximize the return on life for her clients. Please connect with Shari below. She loves to talk about investing, financial planning, and Barry Manilow.