By Laura Seymour

Before we finish the last of the hamantaschen and move on to cleaning for Passover, myjewishlearning.com wrote an interesting comment about the mitzvah of mishloach manot that should be remembered every day of the year: Haman accused the Jews of being “a scattered, and divided nation.” Thus, the Jewish people send gifts to each other in order to show that they are not divided but rather are united. (Following this mitzvah can be understood as a positive reinterpretation of midah ke-neged midah — measure for measure.) Mishloach manot bring peace and harmony to an at-times divisive and fractured Jewish community.

In spite of, or perhaps because of, our differences, remembering that we are all connected in more ways than we are divided is crucial in today’s world. Giving to others with a tangible gift that required planning is a wonderful demonstration of how important it is to support and care for others. It is especially interesting to note that of the four mitzvot of Purim, one is to give tzedakah to help those in need. This mitzvah of mishloach manot is not about a physical need but about giving gifts to friends and family, addressing a spiritual need.

Belonging is a deeply felt emotion that all of us need. Being part of a community and knowing you have a place is essential. Most organizations strive to let each person know how much they are needed. Clal has a program titled “The Belonging Project,” especially designed for congregations. Rabbi Fred Greene of Congregation Har HaShem wrote a prayer for his community. Here is a small part that speaks to the welcoming sense of belonging that we all should experience:

Help us to truly see one another—

To notice each person who enters our doors,

To name them as cherished members of our community,

To know their stories, their gifts, their struggles and their dreams.

Remind us that every soul is needed—

That our community is incomplete when anyone is excluded,

That the wisdom and presence of each and every person enriches us all.

Now more than ever, we need to welcome all, recognizing that everyone is truly needed.

Laura Seymour is Jewish Experiential Learning director and Camp director emeritus at the Aaron Family JCC.