In Jewish tradition the word we translate “miracle” is nes. A nes is a sign, like a flag, waiving above a building or a marker, drawing your attention to something special. Thus the holiday of Hanukkah which we will soon celebrate is known as the great nes that occurred in the years of our ancestors.
Every day when I awake, I have a feeling being alive is a nes. As if I am being alerted to what has to be done whether it is a mundane task or a spiritual task. A nes is a nes no matter what the task may be. Furthermore, the nisim (nes in the plural) are many. Every day a nes occurs and every day we are overwhelmed by that fact.
So what are the nisim of these days?
1.The fact that we are still functioning as a society;
2.The fact that so many people are reconsidering their lives and finding hidden talents oft times leading to new undertakings;
3. The sensitivity that we felt was lacking in our society appears in the most unlikely places;
4.The moguls of yesterday have come down a peg or two. Some of them may in the near future start serving time for their misdeeds.
5.Wherever you turn these days you hear a story. It usually is about someone who had the reputation of being self-centered and selfish suddenly showing some interest in anothers’ fate.
I consider all of these facts nisim. Two or three years ago we would laugh at the soft-hearted and sympathetic among us. It showed a lack of strength. Our leaders were constantly telling us “We must never show weakness or be inclined to care for others. Your concern should be numero uno, namely yourself”. If I am correct in my judgment of the changes taking place in our society then, perhaps, the day of peace may be closer than we realize.
Rabbi Harry Sky
November 4, 2009 at 1:58 pm |
Harry – I like the optimism in your recent message. I am attracted to the idea of everyday miracles that are all around us. All we have to do is open our eyes to see, ears to hear, and hearts to embrace them.
The recent “Great Recession” as it is being called has increased humility in some people and the sense of interdependence among many. These are good things and as you say even “nisim.” Thank you for this reminder.
November 5, 2009 at 3:37 am |
How uplifting and hopeful! Thank you for sharing your thoughts and optimism, especially the day after an election that left me feeling disappointed the people of Maine who I thought prided themselves on respecting the individual. You also reminded me of my daughter’s Hebrew name, Rachel Hinai Nisa. (here, our miracle, Rachael) which her birth was and which she remains today! I love miracle stories, and what a perfect time of year for them!