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75 is the New 25!

Friday, 11 November, 2016 - 1:17 pm

She’s over the age of retirement, accomplished in many ways, left a lasting impression, a household name, wealthy and experienced.

But, she’s still not satisfied.

***

He’s a septuagenarian, rich and well-known. He’s already got a significant following and a large sphere of influence.

But, he’s still not satisfied.

***

No, I’m not talking about Clinton or Trump. You’ve heard enough about them this week!

I’m talking about Sarah and Avraham.

Usually, by seventy five years old, people are looking in life’s rear-view mirror, eager to retire and relax. Perhaps some travel, more time with family and on the golf course.

But Avraham and Sarah began their lives’ most meaningful journey at the age of seventy five!  They had already accomplished so much, yet it paled in comparison to what they would yet achieve.

As this week’s parsha, Lech Lecha, describes, they left everything behind to heed the call of Hashem. Uncertain where they were headed, they put their faith in Hashem as their guide.

And, it is this moment that defines them – and subsequently us – as a people.

***

We often wonder how the Jewish people have prevailed for so long.  Expulsions, Holocaust, pogroms and assimilation have torn at the fabric of Jewish survival. Yet, we are still here and we will continue.  How do we do it?

One answer to this constant wonder might be found in the opening introduction to our nation. Sarah and Avraham, the first Jews, are asked to leave everything behind. In embarking on this new odyssey, it isn’t only their belongings and friendships they are leaving behind.  They are restarting their very purpose for existence.  They are called upon to let go of the past and look into the future.  It may be an unknown and unsure future – but they still look forward.

This, as well, is the story of their people.  As much as we have suffered – and accomplished – in the past, we are focused on what’s forthcoming.

There is no such thing as retirement in Judaism, because we always have more to accomplish.  We are always forward thinking.

***

Sometimes it’s a specific setback or challenge. Or, it may be a general sense of fulfillment with life.  Either way, the Jewish attitude is to look forward. To celebrate the opportunity that Hashem gives us and to embrace His call to action.

As they say, 75 is the new 25!

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