Over the past 30 years or so I have witnessed the deposing (?) of several Rabbis. Each time, there were different reasons, and sometimes, I could even accept the decisions, even if I thought they were wrong. As a Jewish communal professional, I empathize with these Rabbis. It is very hard to try to be all things to all people, especially within the Jewish world. What I cannot fathom is how hard these professionals have fallen, from sought after "star" to banished reject. These same people, who were brought to the community with accolades, are now the subject of ridicule, insult and epithet. And why? Well, mainly just because. Because they don't smile enough. Because they smile too much. Because they are aloof. Because they have their "cliques." Because they don't reach out. Because they are not friendly enough. And the list goes on, you get the idea.
And while I might even be able, as a fellow JCP (Jewish communal professional) to understand why their being replaced might be appropriate, what I can't stomach is the insults, the lack of respect, the total disregard not only for their position, but for their peoplehood. I mean, come on...... these were people whom we esteemed. Lauded. Praised. And now, we can't even be quiet when they speak. It is beyond awful. Most of these Rabbis knew they were on their way out before the final ax dropped.
The least we can do is show them the dignity that they deserve.
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2 comments:
Where are those dispossessed Rabbis these days? Are they in Cemetery Village playing Rabbi in Young Israel interfering with the hired Rabbi there?
Actually, they have gone on... to other professions. They have become psychologists and consultants. In some cases, this is where they belong. In others, I think we have lost some good leaders.
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