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Tragedy and Memories
It has been just three months since the horrific event of
September 11 occurred. The attack at the world trade center and at
the pentagon resulted in the loss of human life and the resulting
loss of so much more.
Our sensibilities and our innocence have been shaken. Locally, we
suffered the loss of individuals and the impact from knowing
friends who died in the disaster.
It seems as if the event occurred so long go; but it also seems as
if it occurred just yesterday. Our memories will be indelibly
stored in our minds forever.
Holidays and
Holydays
Yet, in the midst of this continuing struggle to understand the
effects of the attack, and to realign our priorities in life, the
holiday season is upon us. The winter has come, albeit with mild
temperatures and yet but a smattering of snow.
Shopping for gifts has crept up in our ‘to do’ list each day. For
some, this season is marked by particular religious themes.
1. For Jews, the eight-day festival of lights, Chanukah, began on
sundown Sunday, and continues through next Monday.
2. For Muslims, Ramadan began at sundown the weekend before
Thanksgiving. This time of fasting and prayer also ends on Monday
evening at sunset.
3. Christians have entered into the second week of the Advent
season, a time of waiting and prayerful preparation for the coming
of Christmas. The fullness of Christmas begins on the 24th and
extends for the next few weeks ending on January 13th.
Within our community, as we continue our daily business, and
prepare for the end of the year 2001, we should note the diverse
ways that this holiday season is marked by separate holyday
observances.
We at extend our wishes to all for a peaceful and prayerful
observance.
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