“A summary of every Jewish Holiday: They tried to kill us, we won, let’s eat!” Alan King. 

Eating is an essential aspect of Judaism, and it is the easiest way to bring people together, create unique relationships, and enjoy delicious foods. The holiday of Purim is no different, which concluded yesterday (except for Jerusalem).  The holiday is known for big celebratory meals, giving food to friends and strangers, and charity to those in need.  The experience in Israel is one like no other. This year it is even more special than usual since the last two years have been corona times and so much was canceled. The kids celebrate every day of the week in school with different themes: color day, animal day, and the one that seems to happen in every school, pajama day! It’s incredible to see the smiles on the children’s faces and to see the creative Mishlochei Manot (a gift basket of snacks and foods) that people are sending. The parents create baskets for the teachers, and the giving aspect is deeply rooted in the culture.

The name Purim provides some insight into what makes this holiday so unique. Purim means “lots” in ancient Persian and was named this since Haman (the evil prime minister) decided to throw lots (basically a lottery) on when he would carry out his plan to kill all the jews. We read on this day the book of Esther (also called the Megillah), which does not mention G-d’s name even once. The relationship to the name of Purim and the fact that there was no mention of G-d’s name in the Megillah is proof that we cannot always see the divine providence in our lives and might attribute what is happening to chance. In this situation, the Jews decided to come together, pray, fast, repent and then fight, and they miraculously won the war. While many miracles occurred, they were done naturally, which could be perceived as random. 

I do not believe in random occurrences. I’m here exactly where I’m supposed to be and believe every person is where they need to be at this moment.  The goal for each person is to realize this and go after whatever it is you are here to do in this world to make it a better place. Whether you are a potential student, who will innovate ways of sustainability in food trucks or a future teacher who will encourage our future generation of culinarians to break through all boundaries or limitations, we all need to push forward and do our part.   

The GCI is in full push forward mode. We got architectural renderings (see above), construction moving forward, and permits for the main building. We are looking for new team members and putting out new content. On ‘What’s Burning’, we hosted Danny Meyer, the legendary restaurateur and CEO of the Union Square Hospitality Group, speaking about all things culinary and hospitality.   

We also started to greet guests from the US, and it’s not too late to join the JNF USA’s missions coming up soon; learn about those right here.  We have been meeting with some great individuals like Ronen Arditi, who is doing impactful work in Israel's wine and culinary industry. Read about him in this month’s interview.    

And this brings us to the next holiday, Passover, which will be underway by the time I write next month’s newsletter. Passover is all about breaking through boundaries and limitations, so whether you clearly see the miracles in your life or they are concealed, it is all about us doing our part. Nothing happens without action. I want to give everyone a blessing to find and pursue what you are here to do, realizing the only thing stopping you is you. Have a great month! 

L’chaim (To life) 

Nathan