Dear Friends,
John and Judie Miodownik were from the generation of our congregation’s Builders, who enthusiastically joined our Founders in taking what was then the Jewish Reconstructionist Society to the next step in our development. They helped make real what our Founders dreamed about. John. John was a president of our congregation, a constant participant in our Men’s Group, the MC extraordinaire at our Fund Raisers, our in-house stand-up comedian and folksy storyteller, and a friend to everyone. I read these words – John’s words – at the conclusion of my tribute to him last Thursday. I share them with you as a directive to us in order to continue John’s vision of what our community is.
“It seems to me that in the greater scheme of things, we encounter endless opportunities in our lifetime. The way in which we choose to respond to these opportunities influences the quality of our lives for richer or poorer. It is not enough to sit as an uninvolved observer, as part of the audience confined to making personal value judgements. It is the simple act of involvement that is the key to transforming and elevating such opportunities into moments of value, into meaningful support, into the enrichment of our lives. Participation means seizing some role in the script, no matter how seemingly insignificant and unobserved, and in some way, if only temporarily making a contribution in the best way you are able.
“The concept of participation always appealed to me. I joined this congregation with the understanding that involvement was inherent in the very spirit and system that makes this synagogue function. I feel that I have entered into an unwritten contract, assumed an explicit obligation, and all I have done is try to live up to my part.
“My relationship with this synagogue community is symbiotic in structure. However, I have no doubt that the nourishment that I have received during these past many years has far outweighed what I have contributed. This building is to me a part of my home. It is here that I pray. It is here that I learn of the ancient and of the current. It is here that I question, debate, and, on occasion, daydream. It is here that I socialize, eat, and sing. It is here that I laugh, share pain, share joy, and celebration. It is here that I feel so very comfortable, connected, and secure. I can’t possibly repay for it all because, unlike a good meal, these values will last for my lifetime. I can only pledge my continued support and involvement. I am thankful for this priceless nourishment and for the unselfish sharing of so many. I will try to pass it along.”
And that’s what John did. He gave of himself completely to this community of ours and made it a stronger, kinder, gentler place for us all. And now we must do what we can to carry on John’s. In that way, John’s memory will be a living blessing as our community continues nourishing future generations.
With deep gratitude,
Lee
