Dear Friends,
In any given week if you asked me about the work we do with the children at Chabad Naples, I would summon as much modesty as possible and tell you about the shining example set by my wife Ettie. This week we were justifiably proud when Ettie received the SHINE Award for education, presented by Governor Rick Scott and the Cabinet. It's a very special award given to educators who go above and beyond the norm to make a positive effect on the lives of children in Florida. As Ettie's husband, I am even prouder of her achievements (and maybe now I won't have to get that shiny necklace I promised her ---- just kidding!) If you didn't see it on the news or in the newspaper, click here:
Before receiving the award, at the Governor's invitation Ettie shared a few words with the Cabinet and a room packed with people from all over Florida, about the significance of the event. She said how humbled she was by the honor and went on to talk briefly about SHINE, and how by accepting the award she will continue with G-ds help to bring light and to continue making an impact on children. Every one of us has a lamp, to bring the light of knowledge to our children.
To add to the excitement of this special event, this morning as I walked into an office building I was approached by a complete stranger (hard to believe, I know --) a Neapolitan who said, "Your wife is beautiful." Well, that's not news -- but then she said, "I saw her on the government channel on Tuesday night after she received the award and her message was powerful." We continued talking about the importance of education and how it affects our future, and she said how this little talk had inspired her to want to do something for children in her own community.
Isn't this what it's all about? I know that Ettie received this award on behalf of all of you, who shone for the last ten years enabling Chabad Naples to shine.
It starts with one little light whose rays slowly spread throughout the entire community, dispelling ignorance and bringing warmth, hope, knowledge and enlightenment. Let's keep our beacon shining!
Have a shining weekend,
Rabbi Fishel Zaklos