Facebook Post by Rabbi Perlin in the Time of Coronavirus (3/16/2020)
Monday, March 16th, 2020
by Rabbi Amy R.Perlin, D.D.
During the Coronavirus Crisis
As we begin a new week, under the most difficult challenges for our world, we face so many new realities. So, for Monday, I am focusing on ACCENTUATING THE POSITIVES, WHILE VERY AWARE OF THE NEGATIVES. Rather than seeing my grandchildren in person for Shabbat this week, I have a “book date” on Friday afternoon – which will serve two purposes: giving us quality time and giving their parents (both working from home now) some time to really work. Thank you parents for suggesting it and for including us by Facetime.
And we face other realities, as well. We can’t be social the way we were before. But, we can use this time to accomplish a new task (or for us, to facilitate a move with organization and real thought), or to read that book you have had beside your bed forever, or watch a new movie or binge a new series (we love Australian and British TV!), or to write a letter or send a card to someone you care about.
I am a “cup is overflowing person.” So, while the cup is half full these days, I am striving to share the cup with those in need, rather than hoard what I need. Give much bigger tips to anyone who brings you food, and say thank you to all those front line people who are making sure our community keeps running, and call out the real leaders of our society who are showing and modeling calm, thoughtful and sane leadership from places other than the WH. [Have you noticed that social distancing applies to everyone from you and me to newscasters, but not on the podium at their briefings with them all scrunched together in the cameras lens?!]
I still say L’chaim! It may mean more now, as I pray for those who are sick and scared, but L’chaim is a positive affirmation of what I can do to make this Monday meaningful. To Life, To You, To Us All, sharing, caring, supporting, in the most challenging of times. Have a blessed and positive Monday.