“sometimes i lay under the moon and thank god i’m breathin’
then i pray, “don’t take me soon ’cause i am here for a reason.””
matisyahu, one day
arguably, the torah’s most important exchange occurs when moses is tasked by god to free the hebrew slaves. at this point, moses expresses doubt he is up for the job due to his impaired speech.
the torah states. “but the lord said to him, “who gave man a mouth, or who makes [one] dumb or deaf or seeing or blind? is it not i, the lord? exodus 4:11.
we are created from a maker who accepts ownership of all of his creations. should we, as part of these creations, be accepting of all other individuals who are also part of the same creation? to that extent, we are all equal in that we share a common creator.
thus, as part of the creation, shouldn’t we be respectful and mindful of all of god’s other creations? this respect and mindfulness should extend to other individuals, animals, plants and the world we live in.
due to the first amendment, religious concepts such as this cannot be expressed in a public school environment. this concept can be expressed and promoted in public discourse, at home, in religious schools, and in private institutions.
individuals need to understand that a society’s greatness is defined by all those who are part of creation and not just those most successful or of celebrity status. society’s greatness is also defined by those of least prominence.
for example, a talented surgeon is defined by their patients. it is the sick or impaired individuals in need of surgery and their successful recoveries that make doctor’s great reputation. thus, those perceived of minor standing within society can define those who are considered great. this, of course, is only part of the equation. an individual’s gifts, dedication, commitment toward the medical profession of course plays a large roles in their success. their success cannot be fully defined without assisting those in need of their services.
thus, what should we make of a society that respects and provides for their most vulnerable? what should we make of a society that has no respect towards and discards their most vulnerable?
as matisyahu, in his song “one day, ” noted that he is here for a reason. can it not be said that we “are all” here for a reason?
is this critical enough?
be well!!
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