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Guest Commentary: The choices we make

Amy Snelson
Guest Commentary
Amy Snelson
Contributed photo |

From my perspective one of the most alluring features about Judaism, and in particular being a Temple Bat Yam member, is the sense of flexibility. I have come to appreciate that there is no single right way to interpret Torah, although there is no single overriding consensus on exactly what the term God means, I do get the impression that whether one considers themselves-orthodox, conservative or reform, Jews everywhere feel an enormous sense of pride in having been called “God’s chosen people.” This concept of being “chosen” has been the hardest for me to understand and accept. For years this notion of being chosen has left a sour taste in my mouth because it sounds arrogant. It is one of the reasons I stayed away from mainstream Judaism. I abhorred the idea that Jews are somehow special. How can a religion that is based on social justice and equality possibly incorporate such a narcissistic stance?

I am still wrestling with the implications of what this concept means but with an entirely different perspective. Recently I had one of those aha moments as to what this concept might really mean. Perhaps it means that God (whatever that means to you) has given the Jewish people the obligation to choose morality and to act in ethical ways. This is an immense responsibility, but one that if accepted can make dramatic and valuable differences in the everyday real world.

Studies show us that our values influence our priorities, hence our choices. Research reminds us that the choices we make define who we are. In today’s world “I think, therefore, I am” should be “ I choose, therefore, I am.” Unfortunately here in the United States we seem to take for granted the right to choose our leaders. I think most of us are aware of the poor turnout come election day.



Choosing is both a privilege and a responsibility that shouldn’t be left to others. At Temple Bat Yam our annual election is coming up. Choices will be made about who will lead us in the upcoming year. These will impact not only the composition of the board but the direction we want the Temple to go.

Elections offer each of us an opportunity to become involved in a meaningful and positive way. I hope that all temple members will take advantage of this opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to the temple’s mission of broadening and strengthening community bonds.



Meal Time On El-Al

It was mealtime during a flight on El-Al.

“Would you like dinner?” the flight attendant asked Moishe, seated in front.

“What are my choices?” Moishe asked.

“Yes or no,” she replied.

Amy Snelson is a resident of South Lake Tahoe and a congregant at Temple Bat Yam. She can be reached at amyjosnelson@gmail.com.


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