Shalom My Gantseh Megillah Family and Friends,

Peysakh is almost here, and so many of us are busy cleaning our homes of the dreaded khamutz, of which we must not leave a spec. Our windows are thrown open after a very trying winter season, and fresh air is whisking away the chill, and darkness, of the past several months. As with our brethren of so many centuries ago, this is a season of freedom.

Many people have faced a sea of troubles that have made their lives difficult, and Peyskah reminds us of how that sea can open, and reveal a path towards better times. But, as with the Jews of ancient days, we must decide whether or not to take that path toward new possibilities, or to languish in what is familiar, and perhaps safe to us. It took a leader, Moses, to convince his followers that the new path, through the walls of a tumultuous and threatening sea, was the surest way towards freedom, and a fulfilling future.

We rely on our leaders to help us make proper decisions, and to deliver a better life. This is why it is so very important to carefully consider not only the message of the potential leader, but also the motivations and intentions of the messages delivered.

2008 is a very important election year in the United States. There are three exemplary potential leaders vying for the presidency of this great country. Whoever is chosen “leader of the free world” is facing a heaping plate full of tzuris with which he or she must deal. Three of the major issues being debated vehemently are health care, the Iraq war, and the economy. As Jews, we are also concerned with our country’s ties to Israel.

I am convinced that all three candidates are true friends of Eretz Yisroel. All three senators, Clinton, Obama and McCain want to strengthen Israel’s security, as well as bring peace to the region. The difference is in the way each might go about achieving this goal.

So many people, with whom I speak, have various, and strong opinions as to how the problems between the Israelis and Palestinians can be resolved. Some want to give no sway whatsoever to the Palestinian cause. Others believe the Israeli occupation and the settlements are the root of all the problems. Still others are caught anywhere in between those two sentiments. The Middle East is an extremely complicated and emotional issue, and it regularly tears at the fabric of our societal beliefs.

It is my hope that this Peysakh, as we enjoy and celebrate the rituals of this very important and historical holy period, we give thought to the various paths open to us to achieve peace in the Holy Land. All the choices run through the centre of this tumultuous sea of sand.

Examine each path carefully.

Keep your mind open to differing opinions. Listen to our potential leader’s thoughts and ambitions regarding this important challenge. After weighing their approaches, choose the path you truly feel, in your heart, is right.

A Joyous and sweet Peysakh to my entire Megillah family, and loved ones.

With much love,

Michael