Today’s thinking about connections comes from Risa Cohen, a former CKI president, a retired insurance professional and someone, sadly,  mourning her adult daughter who died last year.. She has seen the ups and downs of connections through the years.

Connections seem more difficult in this time of computer communications. Having said that, the need for connections is as great as ever. Some may think a connection has to be a tight bonding with another person or organization. This concept can be overwhelming and even scary. I personally think of connections as a rubber band, expanding and contracting but always holding together different aspects of who we are. It is complicated. Having said that it can also be simple reaching out for help or giving it. Just showing up. Connecting with other Jews, other people who enjoy the same things or need similar services for their family. Connections are both simple and complicated but like envelopes held together by a rubber band they can be added to or reduced. For me the connection with CKI and its members has helped me get through tough times and permits me to share in both the sad and happy times of other congregants. It’s why I stay involved. And just in case I keep a spare rubber band if the current one breaks. 

Risa Cohen