Life Cycles

I have met many people who share the love of learning through literature and current events. Book club attendees, library users, co-committee members, and Temple staff all provide a rewarding and stimulating connection experience.

Last night was great! What an eye-opening experience. The night ended early as we gave out all the food/coffee by 9ish. Regardless, we met many people, had some great conversations and were all feeling very good about giving back to the community. Speaking for my son and myself, we both met and talked to several memorable people, some of which might make it into my son’s recount of his portion. For me personally, we stopped on Richmond Street, just east of Yonge Street. There was a blue tarp and Lauren got out and took some food and a coffee to the person under the tarp. My wife and I have driven downtown for years and I’ve seen the tarp. While I was pretty sure there was someone under it, I pushed it out of my mind. This experience brought it to the forefront and I will not pass by again thinking about the people and without trying to help. I was also pleasantly surprised by the politeness and thankfulness of the people we met. As I said, it was a great evening and experience. My son and I have already talked about going out again. Thank you for this great opportunity.

“When my father passed away, I was lost. But my experience coming to Temple Sinai as a new member to say kaddish was a complete surprise to me. I was welcomed. I was embraced. I was blown away by how much people truly cared.”

I absolutely enjoy the class, and it is wonderful to see some folks who have been part of the Temple Board or committees/task forces now becoming fellow exercisers with me. This is a special hour in my week, and I look forward to coming to class. In addition, I have also had the opportunity to meet some new people, which is also delightful.

This virus has brought me a blessing, proving the truth of the saying, "It's an ill wind that blows nobody any good". The good this virus has brought me has really been created by Temple Sinai and its clergy. Usually, when I come to the Friday night services, Wheel-Trans picks me up so early that I have to sacrifice the lighting of candles, blessing and partaking of wine and bread, and I cannot eat a meal until Wheel-Trans gets me home, maybe as late as 10.00 p.m. Thanks to the miracle of technology. I was able this week to light candles, have a lovely Friday night dinner and then tune in to the very beginning of Temple Sinai's wonderful 6.30 p.m. service at 8.00 p.m. Should I feel guilty that this frightful virus has brought me this blessing?