During this week’s graduation ceremonies, on the bimas of our congregation, there were song parodies sung and student speeches given and blessings shared and certificates presented. In the congregations, there were tears shed and laughter shared. And mostly, there was an overwhelming amount of pride.

With the start of June, we can safely say that we have entered summer. With the freedom of the season in front of us, it is time to turn towards the excitement of trips and adventures with our families, making the most of our summertime opportunities. For some of you, these adventures might include family road trips, with all the joys and annoyances of spending quality and quantity time together squished into a car. In our Torah portion, the Israelites and their caretakers, Moses and God, find themselves in a similar situation.

Perhaps the most curious custom of Shavuot is the eating of cheesecake. Jews around the world mark this holiday, commemorating the day God gave the Torah on Mount Sinai, by eating sweets, particularly dairy, and particularly that delicious combination of eggs, sugar, and soft, fresh cheese.