I get the privilege of writing to all of you the day before we, as a community, celebrate our very own Cantor Margot! There is not enough room in this little note to write all the ways in which she has enhanced our lives spiritually and educationally. She is such a huge part of what TBA is, and how we function, that it is almost impossible to imagine any event happening without her help. And yet, tomorrow night we will do just that – we will be at an event that she did not have to plan at all. It’s a miracle!
On Friday evenings in traditional homes, the poem “Eshet Chayil”, a “Woman of Valor” is recited. It is from the book of Proverbs and is often used as a blessing of sorts for women. It begins: An accomplished woman, who can find? Her value is far beyond pearls. And indeed, what could be a truer statement about our Cantor? She is always pushing herself to be the best Cantor she can be and seems to manage a myriad of tasks all at the same time, and always with a smile. So yes, her value is far beyond pearls and we, her congregation, are lucky to have her in our midst.
So tonight, as the sun sets and Shabbat begins, I hope you will take a minute to think of a way that the Cantor has impacted your life. This might be something big or small, something she said or something she did. It might just be a favorite memory you have of her in your life, or the life of your loved ones. As we welcome Shabbat tonight, let’s fill the air with sweet thoughts and fond memories
Wishing you all a peaceful and restful Shabbat, and here’s to the cantor’s 18 wonderful years at TBA!
Pamela Barkley
Director of Education
