Episode 40: Hate is Unacceptable and Proven So With LOVE
October 27, 2018, was the day of the Tree of Life Synagogue during the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania massacre. Intent on murdering Jews, the shooter stole the lives of 11 (eleven), innocent victims, with gun violence during the Tree of Life Synagogue massacre. One of those lives taken was that of Joyce Fienberg, a woman of kindness, grace, and valor. In Episode 040, Joyce’s daughter-in-law, Marnie Fienberg, shares with me that the love shown to her family on behalf of Joyce’s life made a clear statement… “this kind of hate is unacceptable”.
Hate is Unacceptable and Proven So With LOVE Podcast on YouTube
Each guest interviewed on Real Grief – Real Healing with Mindy Corporon experienced a grief event that changed their lives forever.
mindy’s show notes
In episode 18 with Rabbi Jeffrey Myers, “Trust, Friendship & Kindness” we openly discussed his role as Senior Rabbi of the Tree of Life Synagogue during the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania October 27, 2018, massacre. Personally, Rabbi Myers is taking steps to stop using the H*** word in any and all communications.
Intent on murdering Jews, the shooter stole the lives of 11 (eleven), innocent victims, with gun violence during the Tree of Life Synagogue massacre. One of those lives taken was that of Joyce Fienberg, a woman of kindness, grace, and valor. Joyce was at her synagogue early that Saturday, offering her time for the Kaddish prayer, in support of others.
Anti-Semitism is real and wounding each of us.
Joyce’s daughter-in-law, Marnie Fienberg, shares with me in episode 40 that the love shown to her family on behalf of Joyce’s life made a clear statement… “this kind of hate is unacceptable”.
While COVID – 19 has made grieving look and feel different than it did in October 2018, Marnie is grateful that thousands from across the world made their way to mourn Joyce’s death. Supporting the grieving family, people of all faiths and walks of life participated in the Jewish funeral and shiva. This respect and mutual support was the first step toward healing not only the family but the community.
Sorrow and grief are universal. How each individual steps onward is unique.
2 For Seder was created by Marnie only months after losing her gracious and joyful mother-in-law. Desiring to remember Joyce for who she was and how she cared for others, 2 for Seder’s mission is to provide learning about Judaism through a direct experience.
Like the surviving family members of the Surfside, Miami condo collapse, Marnie explains that “not knowing is worse than knowing” in reference to the long wait to find out if Joyce was injured at the local hospital or one of eleven found dead in the aftermath of the shooting. Also offering sage advice, Marnie explains the importance of allowing others to grieve alongside you, sharing your pain so that your pain doesn’t eat you alive.
Marnie’s life changed forever. She left her corporate career because of a passion to remember Joyce by teaching the importance of Passover and specifically the Seder to others. By experiencing this special spring holiday, we as Americans have an opportunity to better understand and hold hands with our neighbors, making the world a better place. Together we defeat hate and grief through learning, understanding, and love.
Join me in helping Marnie and 2 for Seder shine a light on peace in remembrance of lives lived well. You will find that taking personal steps to help others heal will in turn help in your healing journey.
Resources
Episode 18, Rabbi Jeffrey Myers on “Trust, Friendship & Kindness”
Episode 24, Susan Bro – “If You’re Not Outraged, You’re Not Paying Attention”
