There is no question that we live in uncertain times. As Jews and as humans there is much that can cause us to be anxious about the present and the future.
Antisemitism is on the rise from the right and from the left. Dolts like Nick Fuentes and Hasan Piker are being given platforms to spew their hatred and views. Politicians with thinly veiled antisemitic views are getting elected and handed power. And the evidence is on the streets. Assaults against Jews have skyrocketed in recent times. We haven’t even gotten to Israel…
Antisemitism aside, our political climate is as toxic as we can remember. Truth is regarded as an inconvenient stepchild to be cast aside when the facts don’t support the assertion being made.
The economy resembles a roller-coaster. Inflation, geopolitical instability, and supply-chain issues are just a sampling of the causes of economic uncertainty.
Throw in AI, climate change issues, worries about pandemics and other health concerns, and who can sleep at night with us all worrying about the future?
Of course there are plenty of positives to focus on. But why ruin a good “pessimism fest” while it is going well? In all seriousness, we humans tend to focus on the negatives, and the question is how can we shake ourselves out of this worrisome funk about the future of our people, our species, our planet, and our universe?
As a believing Jew, I assert that the answers to these concerns can be found in a loving, meaningful, and purposeful relationship with Hashem based on the Torah. A person who has real trust in Hashem rises above all these worries. But how do we get there?
Instead of giving you the solution, I am going to invite someone much more articulate than myself to present it to you. Rabbi Yossy Goldman has been a Rabbi in South Africa for a half century. He is a master orator, and his essays are featured on JNS (Jewish News Services) and Chabad.org. He is also my mother’s cousin. He is joining us in New Orleans to speak on the topic of “Secrets to a Happier Life in an Uncertain World.” Rabbi Goldman will communicate three core principles of Chassidic teachings that will enable us to embark on this path towards greater joy in life.
I hope that our community takes full advantage of this opportunity to hear his presentation. The event is on Monday, December 8 at 7 pm at Chabad of Louisiana – and you can register at www.chabadneworleans.com/goldman.
I look forward to seeing you there!
Shabbat Shalom
Rabbi Mendel Rivkin