Last week I was sent a list of 16 people to call from NATE (National Association of Temple Educators). As a board member of my professional group I, along with the rest of the board was asked to call my list and wish each of them a shana tova. We were asked to complete our calls by the end of the holidays. This time of year is very busy for me so I decided to just take the list and begin calling and get as many done as I could with the intent of completing my calls this week. In my first phone call I spoke with a colleague with whom I had not spoken with in a few years. It was nice to catch up with her and learn about what she is doing now. Even though she no longer runs a school, she is doing really interesting work. She was so pleased to hear from me. In my next phone call I spoke to a colleague that lives here in Chicago and who I see often. She too thought it was so nice to get the call just for the purpose of saying shana tova. One person I called could not believe that I didn’t want something from her. I assured her it was just a friendly call to wish her well in the new year. I left many messages and talked to a few retired colleagues who seemed to be happy to have some one call them and inquire how they were doing.

You may ask why I am relating this story and no, we will not be asking you to call people here at Etz Chaim to wish them shana tovah. However, I do think that this is a good time to call people you have not been in contact with in the past months or even years. Take a minute and just call one or two people and wish them a Happy New Year. I think you will be surprised at how renewed you will feel after making some calls. I know that I felt better after I made my calls, surprisingly better. If you make some calls let me know. I would like to hear your stories too. I wish you all a shana tova.

School begins this week with Hebrew starting Wednesday, the 9th and Sunday school starting on the 13th. All students should have received letters from their teachers. The teachers met last week and all are excited to begin the new year. We have 30 juniors and seniors volunteering this year as well as about 40 adults. Most are returning teachers but we have a couple of new staff. Make sure you introduce yourself to the teachers and offer your support. I hope all of the children have a wonderful year.