Dear Temple Emanu-El Families,
This year, we’ve chosen “Hatov Shimcha (Right On!)” by Ross M. Levy as our Religious School anthem. My hope is that this song becomes something our children carry with them, words they can turn to, and a reminder of what we stand for as a community.
“Hatov shimcha ul’cha na’eh l’hodot” means “Goodness is Your name, and to You it is fitting to give thanks.” The song puts it simply: “Thank you for the things you grant each day.”
I keep coming back to those words. In the middle of busy schedules, difficult days, and all that we carry, what does it mean to stop and say thank you? To recognize the people who show up for us? To notice the good, even when it takes a little more looking?
That is part of what we want to help our children discover this year. Gratitude can make us more aware of one another. When we recognize what it feels like to be loved, welcomed, and cared for, we can offer that same care to someone else.
For me, that is at the heart of the Jewish community we are building together. I want every child who walks through our doors to know: You are loved. You belong here. And this community is better because you are in it.
We bring those words to life when we make room for someone in our circle, invite a new friend to sit beside us, or notice that someone needs a little extra kindness. That is how love and gratitude become part of who we are.
Before we come back together, please take a few minutes to listen to our anthem with your children and learn it together.
Sing it in the car. Turn it up at home. Let your children teach you! I can’t wait to hear all of our voices come together and fill the room.
A reminder that there is no Uptown Religious School this Sunday, October 11, or Monday, October 12.
Thank you for sharing your children with us and for helping us build a community where these words mean something.
With love and gratitude,
Mike Witman
Senior Director, Lifelong Learning
