Nothing brought out the message of “kasis lama’or” more than Covid lockdowns. Just as olives only produce their finest when pressure is applied, the enforced regulations and cancellation of our regular programs forced us to reinvent ourselves. That was the first year we made a Sukkah mobile on the back of a truck. We drove around campus, offering students the opportunity to shake the lulav and esrog and make a bracha in the sukkah.
When Chanukah approached, my wife suggested a menorah parade and Chanukah party. “I don’t know how successful a menorah parade will be on a college campus,” I cautioned. “It works in larger communities, but who will show up to ours?” My wife insisted, and, as usual, was proven right. Many people who’d never come to any programs before were excited to participate! Registration boomed, and the event was the highlight of the season! The mayor sent a pre-recorded message, and the fire station led the parade with a truck. These programs proved so successful, we’ve continued them every year since!
Our job is to be there for anyone, at any time, for anything. It is our mission, and our privilege.
*Names changed to protect privacy
