5772

One of the nice things about being Jewish in America is the reaction of non-Jews to the celebration of our holy days which we are presently enjoying. There are those who say that spending the holidays in Israel is the only place to be because the entire country revolves around those holy days. But I think that there is something truly special in observing the holidays in America and portraying as a living example to the general population our ancient customs and our dedication to the service of the Almighty. It also demonstrates the religious tolerance of this nation and the respect we all have for each other's religious practice.

The number of people who convey to me new year's wishes this time of year amazes me and they are from all different walks of life. Their wishes seem to be with true sincerity and I think it comes with a deep respect for our religion. The cleaning lady in my house, the loan officer at the bank where I am applying for a mortgage, the stranger on the street who sees me walking to synagogue all wish me well. Additionally, it is nice to hear from so many of my patients who wish me a happy new year. I sincerely appreciate their New Year's wishes.

The New Year reminds me though of Gilad Shalit who is spending yet another year as a prisoner in a Hamas dungeon. No contact with the outside. No red cross visits. No knowledge of his health. My prayers go out to him and his family who have had to endure this torture of being used as a pawn by the Pals. It wouldn't surprise me if the Israelis had intelligence on his location and may even have a plan in place to extract him. It is a risky undertaking but a point may be reached where there is no alternative. The parents may get desperate as they realize the longer he stays there the higher his mortality. The family and the government may soon reach a conclusion that an attempted rescue is the only option. I pray that next year the Shalit family will be celebrating Rosh Hashanna together with Gilad.