November 2014

Dear Friends,
When Candidates Feel Underwhelming, Why Vote?

In Exodus 18:21, Jethro advises Moses on the kind of leaders who should govern the people. “Select capable men from all the people—men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain.”
As the 2014 election approaches, I suspect many of you feel as I do — that we have far to few politicians who fit this description. When so often those we elect fall short of our hopes and expectations, it can feel underwhelming to vote. So, I want to take a moment to express why I think it is a sacred responsibility for eligible voters to exercise our right.

We Fought Hard for The Right to Vote

First, around the world, people have fought for the right to vote. First, revolutionaries and activists fought for democracy. In the 18th and 19 centuries, Jewish leaders fought to be included in democracy, advocating for the right to vote. They argued that even though Judaism was their religion, they wanted to participate as full voting citizens in their home countries. While we in America are blessed with the right to vote in a functioning democracy, young people in Hong Kong have spent the past two months gathering in the streets to fight for this right every day.

Jewish Tradition Teaches: You Must Not Stop Working for the Change You Want, Just Because Change is Hard to Come By

Second, even though we have been disappointed in the past, even if the kind of change we want feels impossible, Judaism forbids us from giving up. As it says in the Talmud, “It is not up to you to finish the job, but neither are you free to desist from it.” In other words, if the work of improving the world starts overwhelming you, don’t worry – it isn’t all up to you. But though it isn’t your responsibility to do EVERYTHING, you do have the responsibility to do what you can. Thankfully, God has blessed us with the powers of tenacity and resilience, which I encourage you to use as you contemplate voting.

Not Just About Candidates

Third, this election isn’t just about electing candidates. It is also about passing or blocking ballot referenda on the gas tax, the bottle bill, casino’s, and earned sick time. Your voice is important in leading our state in a direction that reflects the values of all its citizens. Your Voice is Needed Whatever your political stance on the candidates and ballot measures, I hope you will take time out of your full schedules to head to the polls on November 4th. If you would like to talk to me about particular issues or help get out the vote, email me at rabbi@shaareishalom.org and I would be glad to talk to you and/or connect you with volunteer opportunities.

Thanks so much,

Rabbi Margie