Subject: In Memory of Baruch Yitzchak ben Yirmiyahu (Barry Pessin)
From: Heath Berkin <heath.berkin@gmail.com>
Date: 3/30/2018, 7:43 AM
To: Heath Berkin <heath.berkin@gmail.com>
BCC: menachem@alonsystems.com

We are commanded each and every year to tell over the story of the Exodus of our people from Egypt.  The Exodus is one of the cornerstones of our belief in G-d and this story we retell by expounding on the great miracles G-d did for His People. This is probably the most widespread Jewish Law that is observed by almost every Jew in the world. No matter a person's affiliation, tonight everyone will sit down and tell over the same story to their family. This in itself is a remarkable idea to contemplate.   

Of all of the Jewish practices why has this one remained with everyone, even with the most unaffiliated Jews? I am sure everyone loves Matza, but it is much deeper than that. Inside every Jew there is an eternal "spark" and connection, a strong belief (deep down) that can't be lost even if a person has significantly diverted themselves from the path of Judaism. It is this spark which pushes everyone to retell the story, as the point of the seder is to strengthen our belief and realization that G-d created and continuously runs the world. It is this heritage and understanding that we pass along to our children and grandchildren. The Exodus occurred at a time when the Jewish People were at a spiritual low, in fact at the lowest level we could reach, but with the few merits we had G-d redeemed us and uplifted us. This is the reason that the story of the Exodus relates to everyone no matter what spiritual level they are at. Anyone who identifies with their heritage and sits down tonight to hear the story of the Exodus shows they are a part of the redemption. It is an opportunity for everyone to reflect on the great kindness G-d has showered upon us, and to realize His sovereignty over the entire world.

Happy Passover,

Heath