Where
This is an online event.
Hearing Men’s Voices Virtually (HMVV): Me vs We
Online Via Zoom
Our teacher Hillel famously said “If I am not for myself, who will be for me? But if I am only for myself, who am I? If not now when?” (Pirkei Avot 1:4). How should we, as Jewish men, interpret this in today’s divided country and world? Are we islands unto ourselves or do we have a collective responsibility to our fellows? And to whom are we responsible? To our family? To the secular community? To the Jewish community?
As Jewish men, we are pulled in many directions, secular as well as religious. Should we be concerned with only Jewish issues? The Talmud states, "Kol yisrael arevim zeh bazeh. All of Israel are responsible for each other." However, our children and grandchildren challenge us for being too insular and parochial. Should we be more concerned with larger issues, such as climate change and social justice for our most vulnerable populations?
The Me-We challenge was articulated nearly 60 years ago by JFK in his inaugural address, “Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country.” His call was for unselfish service to make our country better by putting aside selfish goals. But is it selfish to ask, "Who will be for me?"
This HMVV will explore these issues. Be prepared to share your thoughts and feelings. We look forward to hearing your voice.
Recommended (but not required) reading - Morality: Restoring the Common Good in Divided Times by Rabbi Jonathan Sacks z''l. Rabbi Sacks passed a way last week and this session is dedicated to him.
Register Now!Registration is free but required for attendance. You will get information on the Zoom meeting when you register.