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As we complete the counting of the Omer and arrive at Shavuot, a celebration of Divine revelation, we are painfully reminded that the journey toward healing is not swift or simple. It is a long road, carved through sorrow, struggle, and strength.
Today’s attack in Boulder is yet another attempt to shatter our sense of safety and paralyze us with fear. But Judaism teaches us that even after devastation, we count - day by day, step by step, toward something greater. Toward meaning and toward revelation.
From the ashes of destruction, we have always risen. From pain, we have always rebuilt. From fear, we have drawn even greater courage.
There will always be forces that try to block our path to the mountaintop. But we keep climbing. We always keep climbing. Because that’s what Jews do.
On this Shavuot, we reaffirm that terror will not silence us. Fear will not define us. We are a people of perseverance, of Torah, of hope, and we will never stop seeking light.
May we be guided by the light of Torah and the power of this sacred Wilshire Boulevard Temple community.
Am Yisrael Chai and Chag Shavuot Sameach,
Rabbi Joel Nickerson
Senior Rabbi