Dear TEE community,

I was moved to tears by the meaningful and beautiful gifts I received at last week’s Hanukkah party. (For those of you who couldn’t be there, I’ve included pictures.) The ark doors necklace sits close to my heart in a literal as well as symbolic sense. Our ark represents so many of the values I cherish about Temple Emanu-El: inclusivity, joy, and a deep connection to our Jewish heritage. Designing it together meant making visible what we believe about our tradition—that it holds something precious, and that we are all invited to open it.

The floral scarf was a (literally) beautiful acknowledgment of my love for flowers while also reminding me of the pleasure I’ve had helping our young b’nai mitzvah students learn the art of silk painting to create their own tallitot. Every time I wear it, I will think of the Jewish tradition of hiddur mitzvah, enhancing our observance with beauty and creativity. The tote bag will let me carry not only books but an ongoing sense of connection to individuals, especially the children, who have been such an important part of growing our community.

. .

As I begin the next chapter in my life, I will treasure these items, as well as the sweet messages and other gifts I have received from members of the congregation.

What strikes me most is that these gifts aren’t tokens of an ending—they’re invitations to continue. The necklace will remind me daily of the work we did together, the conversations we had about what our tradition should hold and who should have access to it. The scarf connects me to a specific lineage of teachers and learners, of people who understand that beauty isn’t decoration but part of our practice. And the tote bag is a working object, meant to be used, filled, and carried through whatever comes next. That’s how I’ll think of my time with you—not as something preserved in amber, but as something alive and active in how I move through the world.

I’m leaving Temple Emanu-El, but I’m not leaving you behind. The questions we’ve grappled with together, the way you’ve challenged and supported me, the particular kindness and warmth of this community—these have shaped who I am as a rabbi. They will show up in how I listen to people, in the sermons I write, in the decisions I make about what matters. You’ve made an indelible mark, and I carry that forward not sentimentally but practically, as part of my working knowledge of what inclusive community looks like.

I genuinely hope we’ll stay in touch. Please do write, call, or visit when you can. I’ll be thinking of each of you often.

With deep gratitude and love,

Rabbi Drorah

PS I will send my new address when I have it but, meanwhile, I can be reached after Jan. 1 by email at dsetel@hey.com.