Three Weeks

It is three weeks today that Rabbi Herbert Silberman passed away. His passing has created sadness that cannot be described, for his amazing, courageous wife, of course, but also to members of the congregation, and to my husband and myself. He had such a gentle way of teaching, being and living that makes his absence so much more noticeable. The Bat Mitzvah today reflected his teaching, as he did the teaching of the Torah portion. But her speech mentioned seeing stars in the distance and only getting to know them up close when you take the time. That was what Rabbi Silberman did, in seeing the star inside each person and making it brighter. For now, he is with the stars, forever in their brightness.
This afternoon, we will relax, enjoy the sun and butterflies passing through the yard, marvel at the first crop of grapefruit on the tree, and be thankful that G-d created people like Rabbi Silberman to share their wisdom with us, even if it is just for awhile.