Generations

The Board of Trustees of my temple met last week. As I looked around the table, I realized there was approximately a 60-year age difference between the eldest member and the youngest! Our average age was 63. The median age was 73.

I will admit to my doubts about this age diversity when I joined the board, based on my ageist prejudices against both the old and the young, but what struck me most that night was that the “30 somethings” and the “90 somethings” participated equally. All voices were welcomed and respected. When I assume the presidency next month, I can rely on a wide range of experiences and skills among those who will be leading with me.

It made me think of President John F. Kennedy’s inauguration speech:

“Let the word go forth from this time and place, to friend and foe alike, that the torch has been passed to a new generation of Americans.”

In this time of what feels like perpetual crisis, we need a new generation to lead us - and perhaps do a better job. Maybe they will take climate change more seriously, guarantee a woman’s right to choose, and mitigate the growing inequality among us.  At the temple, they are defining a new way to embrace Judaism and our mission of social justice.

However, those of us who have been in the trenches for many years still have a lot to offer. At my temple, I am proud to say that we have passed the torch to a new generation without forsaking the wisdom of those that preceded them.