Rabbi's Chayva's Chat

I write this week with gratitude for everyone who has engaged civilly and constructively with the San Francisco Board of Supervisors Resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza. I have been impressed and humbled by how our community has calmly voiced our opinions to elected representatives, honestly discussed thoughts and feelings with one another, and held our anguish alongside a sense of perspective. I was reminded of Amanda Ripley’s advice for navigating an intense news cycle: don’t get hijacked by polarization, limit the amount of anguish you take on, and seize opportunities with reasonable expectations. I think we did well.

As you might have heard by now, the Board of Supervisors passed Board President Peskin’s version of the bill that was a compromise between two amended versions, one introduced by Supervisor Preston and the other introduced by Supervisor Dorsey. Tye Gregory, CEO of the Jewish Community Relations Council, described it as “a compromise that addressed our top concerns.” Most importantly, the issue is closed and the Board of Supervisors can turn time and attention back to more local, more impactful work.

Let us move from a moment of action to a period of reflection. On January 21, we will host a conversation with our district’s supervisor and Am Tikvah congregant, Myrna Melgar, to hear her reflections on the process. This legislative process was challenging and sometimes inflammatory, and we hope that such a conversation will clarify misunderstandings and facilitate constructive dialogue. I encourage us to come together as a compassionate community, united by our shared values.

We have weathered the storms this week - both political and meteorological - and now comes our time to emerge with new growth. The hills are becoming greener, and the sturdy tree trunks hide the gradual rise of sap inside. Today is Rosh Chodesh Shevat, the first day of the new Hebrew month of Shevat, which means that in two weeks (January 25) we will celebrate Tu B’Shvat, the new year for trees and all things that grow. May the rains bring new beginnings, and may we grow and cultivate intentional seeds within ourselves. If you find meaning in guided meditation, I invite you to find a moment for this grounding Shevat Meditation. Chodesh Tov, may it be a good month.