Dear all,
My friend Dean was recently appointed as a California Superior Court judge. He asked me to offer an invocation for the enrobing, which took place a few weeks ago.
As well-wishers celebrated together, I shared the words in this week's Torah portion, Shoftim, which teaches, “Tzedek, tzedek, tirdof/
Justice, Justice shall you pursue.”
It's a brilliant concept: Justice doesn't happen unless we chase after it. Existence is about more than “live and let live.” It's about:
Ensuring the elderly have companionship
Volunteering for organizations to help those in need
Stepping up to the plate when we see racial injustice
Speaking up for those whose voices are ignored
Embracing those in the LGBTQ community
Sticking our necks out even when we are afraid.
Imagine, just imagine if we pursued justice with the same enthusiasm as pursuing Pokeman Go!
Making a difference in the world takes guts. But our moment in time of pursuit will unfold into a future of goodness.
With love and shalom,
Rabbi Zach Shapiro
