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Such a humdrum, ordinary few weeks it has been in our country and world…  What could there possibly be to write about in this week’s Shabbat to Shabbat column?!   Sarcasm aside, with political turmoil, unrest and concern at what seems like “off the chart” levels, exacerbated by campaign rhetoric that is bound to devolve further, the better question is what not to write about this week! 

Ironically, the answer to the bevy of implied choices in this pseudo-question is actually contained in the question itself, as what not to write about this week is, in fact, the amount of uncertainty, political chaos and consternation that continues to unfold and swirl about us. Candidly, there is no overtly political topic we should opine on that cannot be read about in far more informed and appropriate sources. Further, in support of current efforts to strengthen a sense of belonging for all in our Sinai family, no matter our personal proclivities, passions, or political perspectives, opting for topics which unite rather than further polarize in our weekly columns is what we absolutely should write about, as doing so helps to ensure that Temple Sinai – whether within or beyond our physical walls -- remains a refuge, a place to escape, even If only for a little while, from life’s chaos.

There is surely no weekly refuge more restorative at Temple Sinai than Shabbat, and in case you have somehow missed it, this week we are celebrating “Shabbat Across Sinai.”  With close to 40 different homes hosting Shabbat gatherings as well as countless groups of friends and families who have indicated their intention to mark Shabbat at the lake, or while on vacation, or while at dinners out with friends or elsewhere, “Shabbat Across Sinai” has already generated a lot of enthusiasm throughout our community. And of course, let’s not forget all who will be joining us in the sanctuary tomorrow night for our weekly Shabbat service, as you, too, are part of our congregational observance. This particular Shabbat promises to be a refuge from the week like no other, and it’s certainly not too late for you to be part of the “Shabbat Across Sinai” effort.  Simply take photos of your Shabbat practice, wherever and whatever it may be, and email them to Avery Friedman (afriedman@templesinaiatlanta.org), Sinai’s Congregational Engagement Manager who is organizing this synagogue-wide initiative.

But whether tomorrow evening or at the culmination of any crazy week to follow, I hope you will seek out a bit of respite and quiet from the “noise” by joining us for Shabbat at Temple Sinai, where your sanctuary promises to always be a refuge.