Dear Friends: Kindness... the act or the state of charitable behavior to other people.       With hopes that you’ve all had a wonderful, carefree summer, we welcome you home as we enter the month of Elul, a time of repentance in preparation for the High Holy Days. This is the time to analyze how we have behaved and begin asking forgiveness for being unkind to our fellow man. The Bible is full of people who have erred and hurt others. The important thing is to acknowledge our mistakes and change our behavior...particularly toward members of our own Temple Beth El family. We choose to belong to this extraordinary place, entering its doors seeking peace, spirituality and community. Our synagogue experience is far more meaningful when, trite as it may be, we follow the Golden Rule of treating others as we would like to be treated. In keeping with the subject of kindness to others, this is the time of year when membership changes as those who are unaffiliated or new to the area are looking for a home for the holidays. Please be welcoming of new members to our community by reaching out and making them feel the warmth of sincere hospitality. Tell them about Temple Beth El. You are already familiar with the activities and programs available...you are our best representative when it comes to promoting our Temple. At this time of wonder and awe, we continue to make our synagogue a home that is cherished by and welcoming to all its members, both old and new. Let’s all follow the advice of Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch, who offers these kind words... “If someone is too tired to give you a smile, leave one of your own because no one needs a smile as much as those who have none to give.” May this New Year bring you peace in your lives and love in your hearts. L’Shana tovah! — Linda