As I sit to write this month’s article, I am struck by the approach of two seemingly different but yet, for me, related items in the calendar.  The first is the rapid approach of Passover (no I have not finished cleaning my house yet, ugh) and the other is my first anniversary as the Executive Director of American Friends of ALYN Hospital.

At first blush, there is really nothing in common between the two.  Passover is a widely observed holiday celebrated by millions around the world.  It marks the freedom of the Hebrews from slavery in Egypt.  There are restrictions on what we can/cannot eat during the holiday.  For many, it marks the transition from winter to spring.

Yet, on deeper reflection, there are some important overlaps that come to my mind.

The first is gratitude.  During the entire holiday of Passover, but especially during the Seder, we express our appreciation to G-d for all that was done to sustain us in Egypt and, ultimately, to freeing us from captivity and the formation/foundation of the Jewish people.

Similarly, I feel tremendous gratitude to be associated with the team at ALYN Hospital.  I am grateful for the incredible work done by the doctors, therapists, social workers, nursing staff, and management who are all dedicated to providing the highest level of support possible for the children of ALYN.  Every one of the parents I met demonstrated such love and appreciation for the work being done, and for that I am deeply grateful.

Another element of Passover is celebrating the miracles that were done to secure the freedom of the Jews.  This includes the ten plagues, crossing the Red Sea, the provision of Manna, and the ultimate leading of the Jewish community to our homeland in Israel.