As the days have gone by, I have the occasion to repeat this message to myself:        “You have the power.”

When the electricity went out in Atlanta and we faced the new conditions there, I reminded myself: “You have the power.”

When I returned to Miami, while cleaning out the freezer standing in sweltering heat, I reminded myself: “You have the power.”

When I was wondering how we will manage with Yamin Noraim around the corner, I looked and saw how the people from our community joined together to maintain the minyanim and felt: “We have the power.”

As I write these words, our Shul, Young Israel of Kendall does not have electricity. Many in the community do not. It is challenging to consider Rosh Hashanah is next week and there is so much uncertainty.

Yet, even at this time, or better said, especially at this time, there is something of which I am certain. Although it has been a trying time, in many, many instances we have seen the best emerge. While in Toco Hills, at a kumzitz held at the Young Israel of Toco Hills (under the leadership of Rabbi Adam Starr), I mentioned to Rabbi Ilan Feldman (Beth Jacob Congregation), where services of all sorts were provided with the help of the Orthodox Union, and to Neil Davis, who led the Relief effort, that I was uplifted and happy for Hashem. So many wonderful people devoted to the klal. What nachas for Avinu Shebashamayim! Imagine this great zechus before Yamim Noraim as Hashem sees His children taking care of each other with such love and devotion!

Over the last few days, many institutions, shuls, and organizations have mobilized in ways like we have never seen before. The outpouring of giving and desire to help is incredible. Over the weekend I had to console someone who was upset. He and his family were expecting to host people who needed a place, and they didn’t show up at his home. The communal effort was so beautiful and he wanted so much to be a part of it. That’s Klal Yisrael! That is the beauty that has been emerging from this.

The same applies to each individual. We stand in sweltering heat, not knowing where to turn, where we are going, and certainly not knowing how we will get there (especially without fuel).

As many anxiously await electricity, let’s consider what happens when it suddenly returns. The elation would certainly be indescribable!

At this time of year, we say daily, “Hashem Ori – Hashem is my light!”

This is the time of year when we are led to take notice. The light of my life is not directed by the electric company, but rather it is Hashem. The Neshama, the Ruach, the godliness within each and every one of us is fueled by that light.

As we have seen the greatness of Klal Yisrael in caring and giving of Chessed, may we let our souls emerge with new found energy. The power is there waiting to be unleashed. We have the power!

May our connection to Hashem and with each other, continue to grow. 

With deepfelt gratitude to Hashem and to all Klal Yisrael wherever they may be who have cared for us and inspired us & wishing everyone Kesiva Vachasima Tova.