Dear Friends,
In this week's Torah reading, Shemot, we are introduced to the Jews enslaved in Egypt as well as to their ultimate savior, Moses.
Moses was shepherding his father-in-law's flocks when G-d appointed him to approach Pharoah and demand the Jews' release from bondage.
The Midrash teaches that Moses was tending to a single wayward sheep that had strayed from the rest of the flock when he encountered the burning bush where G-d addressed him.
It was his care and concern for this individual animal that demonstrated his qualification as a leader. True, a leader must have the big picture in mind, but he can never forget the individuals that need special attention and assistance.
That's what made Moses a great leader, and it's a reminder to each of us: there is no person too small or insignificant for our attention.
Strive to be a leader like Moses! People deserve to be treated with the respect and dignity they have earned, and how better to show that than to address everyone by his name.
As many know, we have a special tradition at Chabad Naples when after the service I wish each individual in the shul, by name, a personal Shabbat shalom.
Even though we had over 150 people last week, we managed to do it.
We strive to follow the lead of Moses: everyone counts and matters equally. We have grown a lot, and will continue to grow - G-d willing, but we always hope to maintain the heimishe feeling at the world-famous Chabad of Naples.
The challenge of the future will be when we have 1,000 people in the shul. Let's do it, and we will worry about the rabbi naming them all when it happens! No pressure. Rabbi Fishel!��
Shabbat Shalom with Love & Light,
Rabbi Fishel & Ettie Zaklos
Edye Cohen wrote...
What a blessing !