Elections and their Aftermath

The months, weeks and days before an election can be a time of fear and uncertainty and it can be a time of hope for a brighter future. This is certainly the case for the Palestinian people, as on January 9th they will vote on Arafat's successor. We pray that a leader will emerge who will take us forward towards peace rather than bring us backwards to chaos, hatred and violence. This is also the case for the upcoming Iraqi elections scheduled, as well, for this month. We also pray that a leader will be chosen with a heart for the welfare of all of his people and a soul that yearns for peace.

Here in the States our elections are over. As the realities of November 2nd became clear, some in our congregation were despondent while others were content with the outcome. On the Shabbat before the elections, pundits from Jewish Democratic and Republican committees came down from Washing- ton to Beth El to engage in a debate and inspire intense discussion. One could sense from the hundred people who attended that dialogue that neither candidate was a perfect match. As each of us voted, we were forced to make choices about what issues mattered most: the war, security, Israel, issues of separation of church and state, the economy, and programs of social welfare. The reality was that no matter who would be elected, some of that candidates passions and policies would sway from our own personal political and religious convictions.

As Jews, our political debate cannot end with the elections. The freedoms, ideals, and values for which we stand as a community require that we continuously stay attuned to our governments working. As a congregation, we need to continue to debate our nations involvement internationally in the war and in bringing about peace in the Middle East. We need to concern ourselves with current federal legislation surrounding issues of women's choice, marriage amendments, issues surrounding the separation of church and state and so much more. And locally, we need to be concerned with issues of race, education, and poverty. Our religion requires that the society we create is one that cares for all its citizens and is based on equality and equity.

Even though the elections are over, I pray that we will continue to care about the policies of our community and country. May we listen closely to our politicians promises and may we work tirelessly to ensure that the legislation that is passed mirrors the religious values to which we hold fast.

Judy Schindler
Rabbi 

Camp Coleman will be coming to Temple Beth El during Religious School on Sunday morning, December 12th. If you are a parent of third graders and beyond, think about attending one of our informational sessions or meeting with a member of Coleman's administration during the 10:30-11:00 break between sessions in Luski Hall. For more information, contact Rabbi Schindler.