Right before I headed off to synagogue on Saturday, I heard an initial news report about the shooting in Pittsburgh. For a moment, I remember thinking, is it safe for me to go? Being with my communty was the exact right place to be. Somehow, even in darkness, we must prevail.
Names of the fallen in Pittsburgh. Illustration by Wendy MacNaughton
I am filled with sadness, but also anger. Not in a vengeance sort of way, but it a “this is enough, people” sort of way. If you voted for certain candidates knowing full well they are, at the very least, unstable and hate-filled, but you thought it would benefit your stock portfolio, you are complicit in this tragedy. And you have blood on your hands.
It’s a lot to absorb. I find myself regularly on the verge of tears.
There are no words. I can not imagine what that neighborhood is going through. Imagine – one woman was 96. Who would shoot a group of older people worshiping and celebrating g the birth of a baby. I am sick about my country. Can it get worse?
The other week in synagogue (before the Pittsburgh shooting), I was speaking to a Rabbi about feeling like it couldn’t get worse. And he said emphatically, “don’t say that.” And, was he ever right.
Indeed. Never, EVER say or think, “It can’t get worse.” Guaranteed jinx, especially these days. Unfortunately, it can always get worse.
But, if we all vote on Tuesday, it will get better.
Yes, we can hope. Voting Blue all the way.
It’s going to be a long 24 hours.
Wendy, I’m so sorry. I know religious services are supposed to bring people calm and peace. Having to worry about security is heartbreaking.
We’ve had light security at our weekly services for years. But after the shooting this Saturday, they upped it, and checked everyone’s bags. Not sure what it’s going to be like going forward. The whole situation is so heartbreaking. And we’ve got to make it better. It can’t go on like this.
I admire your courage, Wendy. I am thinking about returning to church and am sad to admit that it now feels like a courageous act (same with going to concerts and movies). Hoping for more blue waves in the future and changes. xo
There was an incident in Los Angeles this weekend where a man tried to run over a few people with his car as they were leaving synagogue. These are scary times.