What Did You Do?

by Jill Maidhof

I’ve been thinking about a question that I heard somehow at some time in my life: “What did you do in the war, Daddy?“

If, in 20 years, my children ask me “What did you do about the state of our country in 2024, Mommy?”
my answer could very well be, “Well, I complained a lot.”

It turns out to be the title of a comedy set in Italy during World War II, but that’s not important. The question haunts me because if, in 20 years, my children ask me “What did you do about the state of our country in 2024, Mommy?” my answer could very well be, “Well, I complained a lot.”

We’re all complaining, aren’t we? No matter what topic we’re exploring during the Chai Mitzvah discussions I facilitate, we end up relating the issue to sobering current events — and that’s a good thing. The seamless segue between ancient texts and newspaper headlines reminds us of the timeless wisdom of our tradition, of course, but Lois in last week’s group probably said it best: “It’s just helpful to have a safe place to say what I really think. And here’s what I think: if you don’t agree with me, you’re wrong!” General laughter.

But the newspapers are no laughing matter, and just saying what we think isn’t going to make the difference that most of us want to see — more kindness, more dignity, more justice. In other words, shalom—wholeness, holiness.

That’s why we at Chai Mitzvah encourage people (translate: YOU and ME) to POP—to manifest, through community engagement, the Power of Passion. We recognize that our discussions, important and enjoyable as they are, serve as points of departure. They’re diving boards, designed to help us make a splash in the water that we call Real Life. Here’s what we urge:

1. Learn something new, from a Jewish perspective. The first century sage Hillel instructed us not to separate ourselves from the community, to which later commentators added that we must share in the troubles of the world around us. Sadly, I’ve heard well-meaning, intelligent people say that they no longer follow the news because it’s too upsetting. When their children ask “What did you do in 2024?” will their answer be that they ignored the whole thing?
   One way to demonstrate the Power of Passion is to expose ourselves to many perspectives of current events and consider positions and voting records in terms of Jewish values in order to make informed decisions this fall.
2. Care for yourself spiritually. Hillel again: “If I am not for myself, who will be for me?” Dropping out or ignoring current events is clearly not the Jewish way, but neither is zealotry to the extent of self-neglect. Feed your soul with a niggun, a wordless song; or Jewish mantra; light Shabbat candles or attend worship services. Read psalms and be surprised by their relevance. (I was.)
3. Carry out a mitzvah in your Jewish community. Hillel again, again: “If I am only for myself, who am I?” Do something for others Even Though. Even Though you’re already overscheduled. Even Though you can’t leave your home. Even Though you’re experiencing compassion fatigue. (Don’t feel guilty; no one’s immune.) Do a small great thing that you’ll be able to share with your children in 20 years.

In the words of Hillel: If not now, when?