It was my parents' custom to celebrate the Jewish Sabbath on Friday nights. Mother and Dad worked together in their hardware store but came Friday, they both managed to get home in time to greet family, friends and other guests some of whom had never attended such a dinner before.
As tired as they may have been, and no mater how many unexpected people turned up, there was always room at the table for another person. The house was filled with much warmth and joy.
Mom set a table and a meal fit for royalty. Dad, who was musically inclined, had a beautiful voice and sang the prayer which gave thanks for the past week and for the privilege of life itself.
Just before we had dessert, some kind of discussion ensued usually about current events, philosophy, politics or about raising children and family relationships, sometimes with less than quiet voices but always with respect for each other.
All of this came to my mind at my son and daughter-in-law's home recently where 14 young men and women had been invited to Friday night Sabbath dinner.
Some of the guests knew each other while others did not but all quickly warmed to the stimulation of thoughtful conversation, laughter and the sharing of different points of view.
The tradition of coming together during a busy time to appreciate and respect life and other points of view is still needed today in light of our disquieting times.
SEE YOU AT THE POLLS!
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A charming recollection and so nice to see how it continues to the present. Happy to have been the beneficiary of A's & M's hospitality over the years.
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