Gratitude is an attitude. At Congregation Kneseth Israel, November began with over 100 people applauding Shirley Aronson in a unanimous "thank you" fun loving dinner for her outstanding devotion to our congregation. (See my tribute speech re-printed in this issue).

On a sober note, in conjunction with Goucher College, we commemorated the unforgettable "Kristallnacht" also referred to as the Night of Broken Glass, occurred on 9–10 November 1938, in a musical concert entitled Voices of the Holocaust. This powerful event presented haunting melodies that originated in the ghettos and concentration camps. Truly memorable as we recalled assaults on defenseless and innocent people which led to further economic and political persecution of Jews!

Veterans Day, on Shabbat, was a unique sight to be seen with a special blessing and salute to our heroic men and women in uniform. Thank you, Dr. Donna Kahn and all who arranged this spiritually uplifting tribute. Additionally, in my adult education class that week, we screened the film, Jewish Soldiers in Blue & Gray. The movie honored the 150^th anniversary of the Civil War, exploring the history of the 10,000 Jewish soldiers who fought on both sides of this War. It was presented by the National Center for Jewish Film at Brandeis University. The film just fascinating and provoked much discussion!

As a bibliophage, an ardent reader, a bookworm, and an avid book lover, it is with great pleasure that I welcome November as National Jewish Book Month. Let me recommend some books that intrigued, delighted, and challenged me that you may enjoy as well.

For my recent sermon accompanying Parshat Lech Lecha, whereby our patriarch Avraham and matriarch Sarah followed G-d’s instructions to leave their homeland, I spoke about the parallel challenges in their lives and those of the contemporary characters in the book The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri (thanks Gail Snyder for the suggestion). The story explored an Indian family’s journey to America and the cultural shock and ramifications of their challenging move. My heart was moved by their plight. It sensitized me as well to a similar path taken by my voice coach, Shouvik Mondle, a renowned Indian opera singer. Perhaps some of you have had the pleasure to hear him sing in his booming baritone voice at the piano in our synagogue. Our relationship gives me insights into other cultures, and a glimpse into the life of this multi- talented musician.

I’ve also just finished the book, The Garden of Gratitude by Rabbi Shalom Arush. It explains how to tap into your personal and spiritual growth opportunities and keep moving forward in life. Rabbi Arush advocates that gratitude invokes miracles! (Get ready for Chanukah) I am also in the middle of Senator Joe Lieberman's new book, The Gift of Rest…about the specialeness of Shabbat …so far, so good. 

Additionally, at our Hebrew school, I read to the children a clever hot-off-the-press book, Weathering The Storm. Its artistically savvy illustrations and story theme about being stoic in the face of life’s changes, gave us the opportunity to discuss the recent Hurricane Irene and G-d’s role in natural events in the world.  Hearing the children's perspectives put a big smile on my face and helped us all remember to be ready and willing to adjust to all of life’s ups and downs. We must remember that G-d has a special plan and destiny for each of us.

On November 17^th, I was cordially invited, as a representative of our synagogue, to a reception at the Naval Academy to meet with General Peretz, the Chief Rabbi of the IDF (Israeli Defense Forces). It was a pleasure and honor to welcome him to Annapolis. (I will share more about the meeting in my Shabbat sermon).

Happy Thanksgiving! I am looking forward to an exciting winter and inviting everyone to keep their personal spiritual fires burning through their involvement and participation in all the programs, classes, and life-cycle events at Kneseth Israel. Wishing you a happy Thanksgiving and to 8 days of holiday" simcha" and lighting the Chanukah candles with you on December 25^th at our festive community party.

Warmly and Gratefully Yours,