Gratitude, Belonging, and Community
Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on the many blessings in our lives. In Judaism, gratitude is woven into the rhythm of each day, beginning with the words Modeh Ani: “I am thankful.” This practice of starting the day with hakarat hatov—recognizing the good—reminds us to cherish every moment of our lives.
This holiday reminds us to think about who is included in our celebrations. Judaism teaches that every person is created b’tzelem Elokim, in the image of Hashem, with inherent dignity and worth. We must ensure that individuals with disabilities are fully welcomed into our homes and our hearts. A warm smile, a thoughtful invitation, or an act of kindness can transform someone’s experience of loneliness to belonging and remind them they are cherished for who they are.
Thanksgiving is also a celebration of community, a value deeply rooted in Jewish tradition. We are taught kol Yisrael arevim zeh bazeh—all of Israel is responsible for one another. As we share meals and stories with family and friends, we strengthen the bonds that hold us together and create a place where everyone feels welcomed and valued.
Thanksgiving inspires us to dream of what could be—a better, kinder world. The Jewish value of tikkun olam, repairing the world, reminds us that gratitude is just the beginning. What can we do to lift someone else’s spirit, to make their path a little easier? How can we share our blessings to create more joy and connection? By bringing gratitude, inclusion, belonging, and community into our Thanksgiving celebrations, we can turn this day into a heartfelt expression of hope and purpose.
With Best Wishes,
Shana Erenberg, Ph.D.
CEO
Remembering Josh Schur z’l
A Legacy of Love and Transformation
As we mark the first yahrzeit of Joshua Noah Schur z’l, we reflect on the extraordinary legacy he left behind. As the inspiration for Libenu, Josh changed our world and transformed the lives of thousands of individuals with disabilities and their families, offering hope, dignity, and belonging. Josh showed us what was possible when we lead with love and determination.
At Libenu, Josh was the heart of a community that cherished him deeply. His smile could brighten even the darkest days, reminding everyone who knew him of the joy and kindness that define the best of humanity. Josh showed us how to measure the value of our lives by the compassion we extend to others.
We send our love and support to Josh’s parents Baruch and Joyce, and the entire Schur family. May Josh’s memory be for a blessing and may his pure and beautiful neshama have an aliyah.
