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Thoughts to Nosh OnOctober 2006From the Desk of Rabbi Sharff"Blessed are You, Adonai our God, for the miracles that you have made for me in this place." - Prayer for when one experiences wonder, an exceptional joy, or a deliverance. As many of you know, Joy and I received a tremendous blessing in our lives on August 21st with the birth of our daughter Emily Hannah. Emily is the first granddaughter on either side of our families, and she is also the first great-granddaughter. Needless to say, her arrival comes with much anticipation. And there have since been a great many hugs, kisses, and countless pictures, which I will gladly show you whenever you like. I have had the fortunate opportunity to be with many of you at major milestones of your own children. Whether it was a brit milah, consecration, bar or bat mitzvah, confirmation, graduation, or even a wedding or two, they have all been wonderful times rich with celebration and rejoicing. But what I did not fully appreciate until now is how strongly memory permeates these milestones as well. When I look at Emily, who is three weeks old at this writing, I can still vividly recall all the moments leading up to her birth. This is made all the more amazing by how much she has grown in only three weeks. I cannot even imagine what it will be like a month or two down the road, let alone at those aforementioned celebrations, which many of you have already celebrated. But as I have heard many parents wish, I just hope she does not grow up too quickly. I should also mention that Joy and I could not have done this without your kindness, caring and support. You have sent cards, e-mails, delivered meals, and made phone calls of congratulations, for which we thank you so very much. And what has been particularly special is that you, the members of Temple Emanu-El granted me the unique opportunity to spend time with my wife and daughter. To have this time to be able to create that sacred place with my growing family was truly a special blessing for which I will forever be grateful. We are proud, thrilled and excited to add a new member to the Temple family, and Emily looks forward to meeting each and every one of you almost as much as we look forward to the day when she learns how to sleep through the night. May your New Year also be filled with times of blessing and rejoicing and the countless celebrations that lift the spirit of your hearts as well. L'Shana Tova, Rabbi Ben, Dr. Joy, and Emily Hannah Sharff |
