Fall 2011 Tishri 5772
Shana Tova WRJ Midwest District Sisters:
What a great time it is to be in Jewish life. We, the Women of Reform Judaism continue to share our passions and Jewish values. This is really the glue that keeps us connected. As an international group, we weave a rich tapestry- one which is colorful and vibrant yet allows us to sense the outside elements. It is a fabric that offers flexibility and one that wraps us within the integrative nature of its threads.
As an organization, we are quickly approaching a milestone: 100 years young! We will be able to celebrate this together and it is so very exciting to have an impact. Our centennial Assembly (convention) title in 2013 will aptly be titled: Women of Reform Judaism 100 Years Strong- Inspired by the Past, Committed to the Future. Hold on gals, we are in for a wonderful ride- dust those party shoes off and "we're gonna have a good time...."
Between now and then, we have many activities, programs, and events that will prove rewarding and supportive in our individual as well as larger endeavors. Our collective voice continues to be be heard as we participate in acts of tzedakah (acts of righteousness) and gemilut chasidim (acts of loving kindness). We work collaboratively- promoting and encouraging one another and we celebrate our successes and are there for one another when things don't go as planned.
Having a year of the WRJ Midwest District Presidency completed, I am proud to report that we are 36 sisterhoods strong, spreading over 8 states in 5 "areas" encompassing over 5,100 members. During this time, I have had the privilege of visiting many sisterhoods and area groups- always proud to participate and often having the opportunity to lead- sometimes quietly in between "sessions" and sometimes involving non-suspecting volunteers in front of large crowds. Most often, others report having fun- which is very important.
In addition, our newer sisters (and even our experienced ones) express their feeling of empowerment- all while in the company of other women who share their excitement and joy of learning a new skill, trying out their presentation skills, praying a new song, playing a new game, and genuinely being present with themselves (and of course, with God) while exploring this path of sisterhood. You will see, most often, nobody works alone- it often does "take a village." But, it is magical- and at least I am consistent, as you will hear me again and again referring to the magic of WRJ- it is very real and if you have experienced this feeling, why pass it on?
In times when the world is not quite as stable (shall we say) as we have known it to be in the past, joining and becoming active in sisterhood is a wonderful experience. It is our job to demonstrate this possibility- over and over again. It is our responsibility to share the magic- now is the time to do so!
Thank you to my Executive Committee (fellow officers, area directors, etc.), Board (chairs, sisterhood presidents, alum, past district presidents) and my family, teachers, community and friends--
We are Jewish women who are strong and we are "Stronger Together."
In sisterhood,
Marla Goldberg
WRJ Midwest District President
Temple Beth Israel, Skokie, IL