My father, olav hashalom, often told me only three things matter in your life: family, work and synagogue. I have been married to the same woman for almost 21 years and we have been raising our son for the last five. I have spent 32 years in the same field and made it to the top of my profession, and a few months ago I donated the largest sum of money I’ve ever given to anything in my life to Congregation Beit Simchat Torah.
I’m sure I heard my Pop gasp when I wrote the check. But only for a second. He was one of the founders of his synagogue, served on the board, was the gabbai. I cannot say I love Beit Simchat Torah more than he loved his temple. Not yet. Maybe the day I stand on the bimah in our new building with my wife and watch my son at his bar mitzvah. Until then, I will hold my father’s words in my heart: family, work, synagogue.
–Barbara Gaines
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