What's the difference between ignorance and apathy? If the reply comes up, "I don't know and I don't care" -- you may have a problem and I don't think there's an app for that!
Dear Friends,
"My goodness, isn't it hot!"
How can we argue Florida's daily 90-degree temperatures?
It surely is hot -- wait, put down that fan -- don't cool off so fast!
In fact, why don't we find a way to use all that warmth for good.
Just look around you and I'll bet you can find someone who can use a little of that heat in the way of welcoming warmth, support, and good vibrations.
It has been a difficult week: immediately after Shabbat we heard of the murder of Rabbi Raksin on his way to a North Miami Beach synagogue - his daughter through marriage is a relative to Ettie. We don’t understand G-d's ways, we just cry with the family and try to offer as much comfort as possible at times like this, while authorities seek and find those who performed the evil and senseless act. Then the news from Israel and other places in the world seems to be pretty hot as well, so before you chill out, do something cool. I challenge you to be a better human being. Take note of people around you and ask yourself, is anyone in pain? Does anyone need a kind word or two?
A mitzvah need not be a gargantuan event-- it's the little things that mean a lot. Let's all try to challenge ourselves and perform small acts of kindness, just add a little more to what we already do to make sure we are counted and help spread a lot of positive warmth throughout the world. It's a beginning, so let it begin with us.
Wishing you a beautiful Shabbat,
Rabbi Fishel Zaklos