Public tears and stranger hugs

That’s some of what my year is all about.

Join me in saying — or yelling — enough is enough! I’ve had it. Haven’t you? The sleepless nights, the army-green laundry, the worrying about getting a phone call, or not getting a phone call; not knocking on anyone’s front door for fear they will fear the worst. Tiptoeing around the ordinary question, ‘How are you? ‘ Simple in scope but oh-so loaded with potential for pain.

I’ve been known to admit that for me, this year was one of crying in public; and hugging strangers. Two things in which I did not usually indulge. But now, with the passing months, it’s almost second nature to me. Burst into tears while waiting for the light to change? Yep, that’s me. See the person next to me forlorn and looking off into the distance — how about that hug. Attend any rally, open a meeting with words of sorrow and hope all mixed together, have a cup of coffee at your favorite local spot… and there you go — public tears, stranger’s hugs, I’ve given them and gotten them in return, depending on the day.

We are a Western society, one where you might expect to keep a safe distance from the stranger down the hall, or at the office water cooler. We are also one Jewish people, and that is what has emerged over this difficult year. Our connection, rather than the absence of one. Our yearning to be part of something bigger, if only for the comfort that may offer.

Sure we have our differences — and don’t we do that well. But we also know how to argue with strangers, in loud tones, and conclude with an invite for Shabbat dinner. We can struggle to connect, yet we are not alone. Our Jewish identity and our survival through thick and thin depend on our belonging. However you look at it, we’re all in this together, as the movie tune says, and we’d better get used to it.

Military service for all? You bet. Sharing the burden is an ultimate value of the Jewish religion. Social welfare? Sure, along with encouraging working for a living. We must care for each other. We must try to see the other’s point of view. And above all, we are here for friends and strangers alike, so don’t be afraid to show how you feel. Crying in public and hugging strangers is not only okay, it’s empowering and wonderful.

May we have only good things to hug about in the very near future. Today would be good.