The first time I heard God’s call was at my Bat Mitzvah.
I chanted my Haftorah, read the prayers, and spoke in front of the entire congregation. When I finished, I noticed that there was not a single dry eye in the synagogue. What made my simcha different from others? I did not feel different. Certainly I was as nervous as anyone else following the many months of preparation for this day. But for those watching me, I was different. I was born into the graceful world of silence. And, while I may not fully hear the sounds of music or the human voice, I am able to experience love, joy, sorrow, and pain. I have been blessed as a mother, wife, daughter, and sister. How different can I be?
Approximately 20% of Jews have disabilities and many of them remain apart from the Jewish community. However, our doors are not completely open. The biggest challenges faced are not those overcome by providing access ramps or by making any special accommodations. The obstacles are those created by ignorance and the misconceptions that people may have toward those with disabilities. Indeed, it is easy to forget that NO ONE is created perfect, but rather quite different. We are all created in B’tselem Elohim (God’s image).
Truthfully, my friends with disabilities have heard God’s call many times. With determination to overcome our own challenges, the attitude is to greet each new day as a new beginning – as a celebration of life, blessings, and gratitude. We see ourselves as complete human beings- others do not. They have not yet heard God’s call.
I yearn for others to hear God’s call …the day when the doors of the Jewish community are open wide enough to welcome all of God’s children.
Rebecca L. Dubowe serves as a rabbi at Temple Adat Elohim in California. www.adatelohim.org
