This evening, I am glued to my television watching a hostage situation unfold at a Reform synagogue in Colleyville, Texas. As a woman of the Jewish faith, I am saddened and horrified at what is happening right now. So much so that a light-hearted blog post seems impossible for me to write this evening.
No one should have to fear that something like this may happen in their place of worship. And during a Shabbat morning service. And yet, the Jewish community – my community – has seen this happen way too often. Antisemitism is real. Don’t let anyone tell you differently.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once said, “Hatred paralyzes life; love releases it. Hatred confuses life; love harmonizes it. Hatred darkens life; love illuminates it.”
May our world, our country, our communities, and our own circles grow toward more love, light, tolerance, and harmony.
I am praying for the safety of the rabbi and congregants being held hostage at Congregation Beth Israel and hope for a peaceful resolution to the situation. I am also so thankful for the members of law enforcement who help keep our communities safe.
Tamara
January 16, 2022 at 4:13 am (2 years ago)What is wrong with people? Can’t they just mind their own business and leave the others alone?
I didn’t hear about this terrible incident, but I looked it up and learned it’s “resolved” as in suspect dead and hostages free. I’d much rather hear that things are being done to prevent sh** in the first place. Pardon my language.
Be safe! Shalom.
Elisa
January 16, 2022 at 4:21 pm (2 years ago)Thanks, Tamara. I’m so thankful that it ended the way it did.
Kebba Buckley Button
January 15, 2022 at 9:00 pm (2 years ago)Elisa, GASP. I have been on a break from news today, so I missed this. HORRIBLE. I pray for all those inside and outside the synagogue, all the first responders, the families of those stuck inside, and any others touched by this unnecessary violence.
Elisa
January 16, 2022 at 4:22 pm (2 years ago)Thanks, Kebba. I can’t imagine the PTSD they will have in the days, months, and years to follow. I’m so glad everyone is safe now.
Victoria Juster
January 15, 2022 at 8:34 pm (2 years ago)This is so fresh for me. 2 days ago I posted about our synagogue being closed because of terroristic threats.
Elisa
January 16, 2022 at 4:23 pm (2 years ago)I’m so sorry. It is very scary to see on the news, but when it hits close to home, it is so much worse. We all know that these things can happen to any congregation.
Martha
January 15, 2022 at 8:25 pm (2 years ago)OMG how terrible! This is way too common and I pray this situation ends peacefully.
Hanna
January 15, 2022 at 7:59 pm (2 years ago)This was a very interesting read and thank you for sharing