Dear Friends,
You know that experience of feeling overwhelmed with gratitude for the blessings that surround you? We hope and pray that all of us have that experience often- and ideally, actively create that experience by savoring our blessings every day.
But there are some moments in time that stick out; that dazzle us with their beauty and their richness.
This weekend is turning into one of those moments as Ettie and I feel full of gratitude to be celebrating our dear daughter Chaya's bat mitzvah this Sunday.
We are taught that each Torah portion holds a spiritual lesson that is relevant for all times, and this week is certainly no exception!
In this upcoming Torah portion of Vayishlach, Jacob, who is overwhelmed by G-d's loving protection to him in a time of distress, and the blessings of a loving family, tells G-d, "Katonti, I have become (humbled) small from all the kindnesses!"
Indeed we are humbly grateful to be at this beautiful milestone, celebrating our dear Chaya's transformation into a young Jewish woman.
It humbles me to see this extraordinary girl, born and bred here in Naples, carry herself with such dignity and grace and pride.
And feeling so grateful to our beautiful community who has watched her grow alongside us- it does take a village.
So indeed, we, too, are small before G-d, and we thank Him for the blessings of family, and our dear friends who have become our family.
Like Jacob, we must remember to give our gratitude an address- to the Giver of all that is good.
What truly makes a simcha complete, is the ability to share it with family and friends. This is a precious gift that cannot be overestimated. It takes the joy and the nachas to an altogether higher level.
We cannot wait to celebrate with our dear family and Naples Mishpacha this weekend in shul, with our traditional kiddush following services on Shabbat, in honor of Chaya’s Bat Mitzvah. The main event will be on Sunday at the Bat Mitzvah reception. We look forward to greeting you personally.
May we, as a family, always share these wonderful simchas with each other.
Warmly,
Rabbi Fishel and Ettie