I have been blessed with a diverse career, from pulpits in Florida to Jewish agencies in Detroit, to the national Jewish public affairs scene and, now, development. With each new opportunity I made cherished friends, worked with treasured colleagues, picked up new skills, and grew a little more.
While many of these changes were by choice, some were thrust upon me by circumstances beyond my control. Twice, jobs that I loved ended due to a failing economy. Once I took a new position to be closer to my ailing mother, only to have her pass away on the very day of my move. Personal health issues dictated other career choices.
Of course, I’ve had moments of anger and sadness, and times when I struggled with the loss of a dream that had not yet been replaced with a new dream. During those times, I found comfort and wisdom in Jewish texts and discovered role models in our ancestors. Standing with Moses atop Mt. Nebo, knowing he would never reach the Promised Land, I imagined his pain.
Yet, despite that moment of despair, I believe he would have found comfort knowing that his life had merit and found pride in those he inspired to continue the journey for him. Stricken with illness, I feel Miriam’s vulnerability as she is forced outside the safety of the camp. Yet I imagine that there were others to greet and comfort her among the outcasts, and there she found a new community to accompany her as she continued her journey.
Like Miriam and Moses, looking back, I see that each new beginning was part of a journey that led to a terrific place in my life. I am grateful for each step along the way, and all of the fellow travelers who have shared the path with me.
Marla J. Feldman, a rabbi and a lawyer, is the Director of Development of the Union for Reform Judaism. www.urj.org
