Happy Adar

Today is Rosh Chodesh Adar – The first day of the new month of Adar. The Talmud tells us that when the month of Adar arrives, we should increase our joy. Mishenichnas Adar marbim b’simcha.

This has certainly been a tough year, which for me really started last Purim. I wrote my semi-annual article on Purim being one of my two favorite holidays for going to synagogue and encouraging everyone to find a synagogue and go. My synagogue celebrated with Megillah reading, food, and a bouncy-bounce.

And then the world changed.

So, here we are a year later on the first of Adar contemplating how to be happy as the suffering continues. But, happiness isn’t the command. Rather the command is to increase our joy. Do we see enough positivity, even without the bouncy-bounce to increase our joy?

Vaccinations are a good start. A reduction in new and active cases is encouraging. Lessoning of restrictions, discussions of opening sporting and theater is exciting. We are not there yet, but are we ready to be optimistic? If so, then maybe we’re ready to increase our joy, just in time for Adar and Purim.

Purim is in two weeks. This year we will see a mix of virtual and in-person services, activities, and programs. We have a page up on our website with the communal opportunities. Please check back regularly for updates. You can also check with any of our community synagogues and agencies directly. We have a listing here on our website.

Shabbat shalom and happy Rosh Chodesh Adar.

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