Dear Friends,
Purim is a very special time of year. It is full of joyous celebration: Dressing up, festive meals, sharing with your friends and neighbors, a l'chaim or two. But it's special for my wife, Ettie, and I on a personal level because it was the first event we put on after we had officially moved here to Naples so many years ago. We held it at the Naples Women's Club, and I still remember so clearly bringing our first born, Mendel, who was just a few months old at the time (he’s 22 now!). See the pics for a trip down memory lane.
So what's the message of Purim? Truthfully there are so many, but I'd like to give you three specific takeaways that are highly relevant to our own lives.
1. You Have a Unique Life Mission
Esther is told by Mordechai that she must speak to the king and plead for her people. She replies: That’s impossible. Everyone knows the rule of the kingdom. If you enter the king’s chambers without first being called, you will be killed “I haven’t been called for 30 days!” she relays to Mordechai.
What does Mordechai’s reply to Esther. “Who knows? It might be that you were chosen to be queen just for this moment!” Every encounter, talent, and strength that we have been given is for a purpose. Each of us has our own unique spiritual fingerprints to leave in this world. God places us exactly where we need to be to accomplish our mission. Esther is asking us to discover the meaning of our existence, and the unique circumstances in which we find ourselves.
2. Live with Courage and Compassion
After accepting her mission, Esther says, “I will go to the king. And if I die, I die.” I will give it my all. I will muster the courage to do my best.
As life progresses into its later stages, many people are left with their regrets. If only I had…but the moment is lost. Esther is telling us to seize courage, step up to the plate and at least know forever that you tried to make a difference.
3. Don’t Bow to Haman
Mordechai refused to kneel or bow down to Haman. Every generation has its Haman. Any force that threatens your ability to connect to your soul or tries to cool your passion for what is right and truth is a figurative Haman.
There will always be people who belittle your desire to be better and live higher. There will be those who mock your standing for truth, for your people, and the land of Israel. Don’t crumble. Don’t bow. Never lose your passion for goodness. Stay strong as Mordechai did.
Purim is always special. But this year, it feels especially urgent to show up. To gather. To celebrate with like minded adults. To bring our community together to a Purim party filled with pride and joy.
Join us for Purim. Stand together as a community that believes in hidden miracles and living faith. Let us open our eyes to the blessings around us, even when they are not loud. Let us pray for victory for the USA and Israel, for the safety of our soldiers and civilians, and for security and peace for the entire world.
Especially this year, our presence matters. Our joy matters. Our unity matters. During these times that feel so tenuous, staying strong is more important than ever. And it’s easier when we do it together!
So let’s gather this Purim, celebrate the victory of Jewish redemption, and joy of Jewish life.
Just as the Jewish people gathered together so many generations ago and nullified the decree set to destroy them, so it should be with us.
Do not miss the moment. Click here to join our Grand Purim Party!
Shabbat Shalom & Happy Purim!
Rabbi Fishel & Ettie Zaklos