Those of us lucky enough to live in Vermont are nearing a 80% first dose vaccination rate across the state. What I am seeing across our county is astonishing in light of what we have endured: people talking to people face-to-face. I don’t know about you, but I am taking advantage of the opportunity to safely reconnect after over a year bereft of in person kibbitzing (aka schmoozing, aka #whatJewsdo).
One of the great pleasures of this past couple of weeks has been seeing so many of you. Schmoozing with Paul Stewart, chair of our green team, as he worked on a trellis for our Mitzah garden. Meeting with members one-to-one out in the tent. Greeting grandparents, parents, and family members with immense joy for the two Mitzvah ceremonies we celebrated in May. And hugging one of our members—who shall remain nameless—who was not a hugger before COVID, but now can’t stop hugging people.
I have never wanted to kibbitz more with people. How about you? Whether just now reluctantly coming out of your turtle shell of an existence in quarantine, or emphatically embracing our shared lives together, might you join us TOMORROW/this Saturday at 5pm in our tent for a Kibbitz or if not, how about Wednesday, June 9 at 7pm?
Our new membership committee, chaired by Debby and Monika Sherman (mother- and daughter-in-law duo extraordinaire) are putting out a spread in our new JCOGS Café under the tent as we enjoy each other’s company. Members of your board will be present. As we come out of the pandemic, we want to ensure that all our members feel valued and inspired. We will share stories of “oh what a year” for what I promise will be a fun evening of conversation.
Tihiyu bri’im, stay safe, be well. Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi David
P.S. Those who come to one of the Kibbitzes walk away with a special gift from your JCOGS community.
P.P.S. We also continue to meet Friday nights at 6 p.m., including tonight, both on Zoom and in person.
