Vayigash was last Friday’s Torah portion. Vayigash is to “draw near.” We learn from this parshas the story of Judah drawing near to Joseph through an impassioned plea on behalf of his brother, Benjamin, and father, Jacob. Judah shows remorse for his past wrong doings against Joseph and offers himself as a slave in place of his brother, Benjamin. Through a sincere and authentic speech of repentance, Judah was able to touch an emotional cord with his brother Joseph. And Joseph was then willing to finally reconcile with his brothers.

The power of words can heal or hurt. Our words can bring comfort or pain. Like Judah, preparing a carefully worded speech to Joseph, we need to carefully choose our words when speaking to each other. Working so closely together, creating our new Temple, we want to remember the message in this Torah portion. Our words are important. Our everyday speech is reflective of our character.
Some things need to be said, and other things are better left unsaid. It helps to know the difference.

Judah’s speech, so carefully constructed and passionately delivered, had a purpose. He convinced his brother Joseph to allow Benjamin to leave with the others. His words show us that over the years Judah had grown both in age and wisdom. We can embrace this Torah portion and be thankful for the lesson it teaches. Use our words wisely, respectfully and compassionately. Let things better left unsaid … unsaid.

Judy Belmont gave a thoughtful and meaningful Sermon at last Friday’s Shabbat Service. She spoke of the word “Hanukkah” and explained its meaning, “The word ‘Hanukkah’ is derived from the word, ‘to dedicate’ and Chanukah is a time of rededication of the temple when the Jews took control of Jerusalem and miracles happened with the limited oil burning for 8 days during the ‘festival of lights.'”

As with many stories that are handed down from generations past, it is the symbolism that holds the true meaning. From this story of the “festival of lights” we can surmise that the rededication of the Temple can be interpreted to mean a renewal of one’s spiritual connection to their religion. Though there are many obstacles, such as a limited amount of oil to burn, you can rekindle the light within you with the tiniest amount of hope for a better tomorrow.

It is a timely story to be told so close to the secular New Year. When many of us are making resolutions to improve our lives, it can also be a time to “rededicate” yourself to your religion, your family, your community and the world around you. As Jews, it is our mission to make the world a better place, Tikun Olam. So when we are listing those resolutions on January 1, 2012, remember the word “rededication.” In addition to losing weight, reading more books and spending more time at the gym, include a few that will make a difference to the world in which you live. Let the tiniest amount of the light within you illuminate your soul and make a positive difference in the world around you.