Shabbat Shalom, Temple Beth El Family!
When Kerry and I decided to leave Arizona after many wonderful years and begin a new chapter in South Florida, we knew there would be plenty of changes ahead. What we didn’t know was just how quickly a new place could begin to feel like home.
From our very first Shabbat, you’ve welcomed us with open arms. Whether through a warm embrace, a friendly conversation, or simply stopping to tell us how happy you are that we’re here, you’ve made us feel that we truly belong. I hope you know how much those little moments have meant to us.
I’ve been thinking about these new beginnings as I’ve reflected on this week’s Torah portion, Chayei Sarah. Although we translate the title as “The Life of Sarah,” the Hebrew word chayei is plural, inviting us to think about the many lives we live within a single lifetime. Interestingly, the portion begins with Sarah’s death, yet her story continues through the people she leaves behind. And as Isaac begins a new chapter with Rebecca, we’re reminded that while life moves forward, we carry the love, wisdom, and experiences of those who came before us.
That idea brings me to a song I wrote many years ago called “Tree of Life.”
At the time, I was working at New Community Jewish High School in Los Angeles. I had written plenty of songs, but nothing specifically Jewish. When the school chose “Tree of Life” as the theme for an upcoming retreat, I started thinking about the wisdom we inherit from our parents, grandparents, and teachers, and how we pass those lessons along.
I imagined a grandfather planting a tree that would provide shade and protection for generations to come. As he worked, he shared a lesson with his grandson about living a life of justice, integrity, and generosity. That became the heart of the song: the wisdom we inherit matters most when we put it into practice, share it with others, and use it to make the world a little better.
Over the years, “Tree of Life” has become especially meaningful to me. As I’ve moved through different chapters of my own life, I’ve come to appreciate how deeply we’re shaped by the people who have loved us, taught us, and helped us grow.
And now, here at Temple Beth El, I have the privilege of becoming part of a community with deep roots and a beautiful history. I’m grateful for the opportunity to add my voice to its story, and even more grateful for the warmth and kindness you’ve already shared with my family and me.
One of my favorite lines from the song is, “The more you give, the more you will receive.” You’ve already shown me just how true that can be.
I look forward to all that we’ll learn, create, and share together as we begin this next chapter.
Etz hayim Hi. It is a Tree of Life.
Shabbat Shalom,
Cantorial Associate Todd Herzog
