has , at times , felt , “ our hope is lost ,” 37 yet “ our hope is still not lost .”
Every Passover , we stoke our hope . Like those who experienced the Exodus , we gather to share a meal and the stories and journey of freedom . We remember the bitterness that we have overcome and recall the promise of redemption . Together , we sing that next year will be better .
Especially during hard times , it ’ s important to realize that hope is essential for making next year better . Do whatever it takes to nurture your Agency and Acceptance , because hope is not just a good feeling about the future . It is the fuel we need to keep expanding our vision and collaborating to shape a better future .
Before the Israelites could know freedom , they had to have hope for freedom .
Before we can make peace , we need the hope that peace is possible .
I ’ ll meet you out there in the future , in the Promised Land and the City of Peace .
Rabbi Debra Orenstein is the rabbi at Congregation B ’ nai Israel in Emerson , NJ .
37
Ez . 37:11
137