In Pirke Avot, we learn that one mitzvah leads,even causes another mitzvah to be done. Likewise, one transgression leads to another. It seem that, in human affairs, we do tend to imitate each other. When there is an atmosphere around us of anger and violence, we often have the impulse to follow suit. Our anger is kindled, and we are capable of committing violence as well. On the other hand, when a hand is extended to another in compassion and friendship, often there will be reciprocal gestures. What seems especially hard and even unnatural is to break this powerful cycle, to change the direction by responding to violence with restraint and even a token of respect and hope.
In Israel and the West Bank at this moment, we stand now at such a precipice. Cruel violence has been committed. We ask ourselves so searchingly how best to respond. Of course justice must be pursued so that those who murdered innocent young people are severely judged. Yet, beyond justice, there are choices. The tradition is so clear. “Do not seek vengeance”. Instead, “Seek peace and pursue it.” We are now at a time of momentous decision making. May we learn restraint and pursue peacemaking with even more determination.
Israel is beset by complex, painful, seemingly inscrutable issues. Yet, perhaps because it is a young, tiny land, it is brimming with people who live their lives knowing they can make a difference. In our circle of friends, we know inspiring people who have found or created a niche to which they passionately devote themselves with the conviction that what they do really matters.
I was privileged to be present on Friday in Jerusalem at a moving program about women’s roles in bringing change. My friend from kindergarten(!!), Elana Rozenman, founder of 
I spoke to the group about my almost fifty years of experience in interfaith dialogue in the United States, about how much I have learned from Jewish tradition about respecting religious diversity, and about how potent interfaith cooperation can be in speaking up for issues of human rights, justice, and peace.
My visit to Tel Chai Academic College was arranged by the US Embassy. I am very grateful to their staff who feel that religious lenses for reconciliation should be explored.
We are devastated by the losses of our children in Newtown. Those precious children do truly feel like our own. The terrifying weapons used in this atrocity are scandalous and should be banned in our society even for those who pass a rigorous background check. I have not yet heard a compelling argument for exceptions.
The tenor of the national election campaigns was bitter, reflecting the passionate feelings which separated and still separate one camp from the other. In his acceptance speech, the President said something that deeply resonated with me. He affirmed that the divisions were passionate and stubborn because those on all sides truly cared for the welfare of this country. There was a point of identity at the very root of deeply felt convictions.
During the festival of Sukkot in antiquity, the first Temple was dedicated by King Solomon in Jerusalem in a dramatic ceremony described in the Bible (1 Kings 8:2-21). The reading of this text takes place in the modern synagogue during the festival.
While I was in Seattle recently, I was approached by a man who shared this story. His family had been very close, always joining together at holidays and other milestones. His two nephews, brothers, were very close. Something occurred which caused estrangement between them. Being very pained by the sudden distance between them, he asked me if he should intercede.
Dear Friends,
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