In my role as a rabbi for over 25 years, I have had the privilege of being a witness to people’s stories and experiences. From sitting beside their beds as they pass away to burying their loved ones, my journey has been filled with both joy and sorrow. Throughout this time, I have observed the immense pain and brokenness that exists within all of us. Those who fail to acknowledge their own brokenness or that of others often end up causing harm. It is through humility, striving, and the pursuit of goodness that we can rise above our brokenness and find solace in the shared valleys of life.
Religious communities are bound together by this understanding. No religious tradition, including my own, asserts that individuals are perfect. Rather, it is the acknowledgement of our imperfections and the pursuit of faith that bring us together. In these communities, we gather to sing, to reflect on the wisdom of the past, and to find solace in the knowledge that we are part of something greater than ourselves.
Sadly, the number of people identifying as religious and actively participating in religious communities is declining each year. This decline has multifaceted consequences for our society. Not only does it erode the social fabric, but it also impacts charitable efforts and contributes to the disunity and polarization we see in politics. To combat this, I have encouraged my own congregation to prioritize building relationships and understanding one another’s lives before delving into political discussions. It is through these shared experiences and acts of compassion that we can bridge our differences and foster unity.
One crucial lesson I have learned is the importance of listening. We often believe that we understand others, but in reality, each person is a complex and vast world unto themselves. The caricatures we see on social media and in the news only offer a small glimpse of someone’s true essence. It is through genuine listening and openness that we can discover the richness and depth within each human being.
Although my years in the rabbinate have not been without challenges, it is the poignant moments that linger in my memory. From receiving drawings from autistic children to teaching parents how to bless their children, there have been countless instances of profound connection. Even in the face of tragedy, such as witnessing the burial of newborn twins, I have seen acts of comfort and love that reaffirm the resilience of the human spirit.
However, I cannot ignore the concerns that have emerged during my time as a rabbi. The rise of hatred and antisemitism worldwide, coupled with the degradation of discourse surrounding Israel, has been deeply troubling. The struggles brought about by the Covid pandemic and the subsequent isolation have only exacerbated tensions and loneliness.
Nevertheless, when I reflect on my years, it is not the controversies or conflicts that endure. Instead, it is the powerful impact of tradition and faith in people’s lives. The stories of the Torah serve as a guide, illuminating life’s complexities and providing meaning to our celebrations and grief. While religion may be declining in the Western world, the full spectrum of human existence, from ecstatic joy to profound sorrow, can still be found within the walls of a local house of worship.
As I prepare for retirement, I am filled with gratitude for the role I have played in supporting others on their spiritual journeys. I remain hopeful that the power of religion and the beauty of communal connection will continue to guide and comfort those who seek solace and meaning in their lives.
Rabbi David Wolpe is the Max Webb emeritus rabbi of Sinai Temple and will be a visiting scholar at Harvard Divinity School in the fall.
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