theOPTblog

"Knowledge is knowing a tomato is a fruit. Wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad."

It probably should not have surprised me, but serving as President of Oak Park Temple has provided me with opportunities to learn - about Judaism, about our congregation, about all of you, about myself. Probably the most important thing that I've learned though, is that I didn't need to be President of the congregation to avail myself of the many opportunities to learn and grow that are here for ALL of us at Oak Park Temple.

Earlier this year, I began a regular practice of attending Pirke Avot study (Chapters of the Fathers) on Shabbat mornings with Rabbi Weiss and a small group of thoughtful, but sometimes irreverent, fellow congregants. We wrestle with the ethical and moral principles offered by our sages, and we do so in a manner that is thought-provoking and stimulating. Laughter is common. I have come to recognize that you can teach an old dog new tricks.

Learning is often thought to be the province of the young. To be sure, Oak Park Temple has stellar programs for the young beginning with the Glasser Preschool program, the OPT Religious School with Gan for our kindergarteners, primary education leading to b'nai mitzvah preparation, Kabbalat Torah study and confirmation for our high schoolers. But, it does not end there. Our OPTY group offers our kids the opportunity to stay connected to Judaism in a fun, safe, and open environment, as well as doing the work of Tikkun Olam.

Showing up is the best way to begin and, once here, the ways to learn are extensive. Listen (I mean really listen) to a sermon, attend a workshop by Rabbi Weiss, Rabbi Gerson, or one of the many speakers brought to Oak Park Temple by our committees. Attend one of the Torah Study groups, Adult Hebrew, Torah cantilation class, the annual Hausman Brunch. Listen to the excellent speakers at our JUF and Israel Bond luncheons, or attend one of the monthly "Mel's Movie Matinees." Prefer a little peace and quiet? Curl up with one of our many good books in the library.

Read, and think about, the 'parsha' summary in Cantor Green's Weekly e-mails, check out the 'Book' section on our Temple website, attend worship services and, most importantly, be curious and ask questions.

Judaism has survived for thousands of years because we are a people that cherishes learning. Indeed we are commanded, in the V'ahavta from Deuteronomy to "teach our children..." We can't teach what we don't know. If we don't continue to learn throughout our lives, we cut ourselves off from the profound richness of our Jewish heritage.

Show up. Take a taste. Be nourished.

L'shalom,

Jeff Blaine