October 7th: We Shall Dance Again

Thank you and Shabtai for hosting the recent event memorializing the atrocities of Oct. 7. The speeches were beautiful, and the feelings of the community were palpable. Although unexpected, the dancing after the speeches was the perfect ending to a day of mourning. And, for this friendly gentile, it was a wonderful peek into Jewish culture. Such vibrant life amid the sadness was truly moving.

I also want to share with you my profound gratitude for how welcome I felt at the event. I went to the campus vigil to show support for the Jewish community, and the night ended with my Jewish friends and neighbors literally extending their hands and inviting me to dance. I will treasure that memory forever. And I hope that the day soon approaches when Jewish people around the world receive the same kindness, respect, and love. It cannot come soon enough.

Have a blessed day.