And, The Shirt I Like

By Sharon Garber, Hesed Chair

​As the newly minted chair of Adath’s Hesed Committee, I decided to do a “walk-about” inside and outside of the synagogue to capture people’s varying concepts of Tikkun Olam, repairing the world. I have had many interesting conversations. The one I had recently with Lenny Garber (no relation – but a cool guy) was one of the most inspiring.

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After hearing a presentation about the need for clothing at PRISM’s Shop for Change thrift shop, he told me that he didn’t have a lot to give, but had decided to donate two sets of clothing. First, he was going to donate a shirt and pair of pants that he didn’t wear much and didn’t particularly like. That would be easy. He was also going to donate a shirt and pair of pants that he really did like, because, “that would be more meaningful.”

As you look at this picture of Lenny with the shirt he isn’t so crazy about and the “shirt I like,” look also at the smile on his face. Tikkun Olam can encompass the acts that are easy, such as bringing two bags of food to Adath on Kol Nidre for STEP, or dropping off gently used clothing or household goods to PRISM. The smallest acts make a big difference for those who are struggling. But, the Tikkun Olam that involves giving just a bit more of yourself generates a sense of well-being that feeds the soul.

As we approach the new year, if you would like to add a little bit of Hesed into your life, your family or your committee, contact me, Sharon Garber, at hesed@adath.net. We have lots of opportunities, large and small, from writing an email in support of a good cause, to helping serve a meal at Our Saviour’s Shelter or Loaves & Fishes. Add a bit of Hesed spice to your apples and honey this year!