There is much optimism in a package of parsley seeds. Planted in a plastic cup at a Purim carnival, mixed with rich soil in a Sunday School class, delivered with a child’s book selection from the PJ Library, handed out to sisterhood members at a late winter event: each effort is a reminder that Passover is only weeks away. If those seeds are nurtured with sun and water, they will sprout and grow into leafy little plants to be placed into one of the small cups on our seder plate, and garnish the gefilte fish.
But not all those little seeds make it, as anyone who has ever wondered why a Dixie cup filled with dried dirt is sitting on the windowsill of a child’s room, already knows. Not everyone has the talent or the patience or the perseverance to bring those seeds to harvest. And besides, you can always buy a sprig of parsley at the supermarket. (Supermarkets are optimistic as well: Passover foods are on the shelves before you can clear the table from the Tu Bishvat seder).
The women who support the efforts of Women of Reform Judaism on the North American, District, and local levels are also nurturers, with the talent, perseverance, and patience to plant all sorts of seeds and ensure their growth. Indeed, our organization is so committed to this philosophy that it is included in our new mission statement:
Founded in 1913 as an affiliate of the Union for Reform Judaism, WRJ strengthens the voice of women worldwide and empowers them to create caring communities, nurture congregations, cultivate personal and spiritual growth, and advocate for and promote progressive Jewish values. To fulfill this vision, WRJ engages tens of thousands of women through a global network of hundreds of sisterhoods and women’s groups. Stronger together, we ensure that these women make a difference in the world.
Every one of our members should regard this with a great deal of optimism. We are never alone, wondering how we can possibly make things grow. We support each other, bringing our highest objectives and our aspirations to fruition, and gaining strength as each season progresses. It is the hope of everyone in a leadership position that each sisterhood and women’s group will thrive, and we will endeavor to ensure that success.
As you don your Queen Esther gown in a few weeks, consider that WRJ women throughout North America and the world are doing the same. When you water your sprouting parsley, know that you have succeeded where others have failed. And when we place our home-grown parsley on the seder plate, we celebrate the start of a new season of hope and promise for all of us, stronger together.
Sharon Sobel
Wilton, Connecticut
