Praise for rabbi’s recent commentaries
We are very impressed with the articles that Rabbi Ze’ev Smason submits to the Jewish Light. He always sheds a light on the truth and shares his exemplary wisdom to the Jewish people. We always look forward to his articles.
Joyce and Cantor Murray Hochberg
Olivette
Most people usually write letters to complain. I do not. In fact, I have a compliment that I believe is important and wanted to share it with you.
A group of my friends get together for coffee and we enjoy discussions on different articles that we read, most of them are from the Jewish Light. In particular, we appreciate Rabbi Smason’s commentaries, as they are always enlightening and informative.
Our group consists of individuals on all sides of the political and spiritual spectrum. We feel that it is important that all points of views are presented. Rabbi Smason’s commentaries, from a Torah perspective, provides insight on issues that for some of us, would not have ever been considered.
Rhonnie Goldfader
Creve Coeur
Be cautious in making assumptions with greetings around the holidays
As a Jewish American, with the holiday season upon us, I appeal to the public to quit thinking that everyone they encounter is Christian and refrain from wishing everyone a Merry Christmas.
No doubt they mean well, but in all honesty it infuriates me. It is tantamount, not knowing their religion, to wish everyone I meet a Happy Hanukkah or a Happy Kwanzaa. I suspect that a plethora of persons would find, as I do, such a greeting insulting.
Therefore, I propose, if one finds it necessary or appropriate to extend a welcome greeting, my suggestion is to just say, Happy Holidays. Unless one is an atheist or agnostic, this ought to satisfy almost everyone.
The separation of church and state is a paramount principle of our nation and should be in force every day of the year, holidays included. To not honor this sacred principle would be a travesty of the worst kind.
Gene Carton
St. Louis County
Advocacy needed for reauthorization of SNAP
Thank you for the charming story about St. Louis’ “Lasagna Queen” (“Meet the ‘lasagna queen who’s dished out 250 trays and her husband who delivers the goods!” Unsung Heroes, Nov. 20 edition). Our hungry neighbors need volunteers like her. I know they need a protected food program from Congress.
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) serves over 42 million people per month. It’s part of the U.S. Farm Bill, requiring re-authorization every five years. Congress failed to pass a new bill on time. Arguing over dangerous cuts of $30 billion over the next decade resulted in an expired bill. SNAP is in danger of running out of money at year’s end.
Congress needs to pass a new Farm Bill fast. Knowing that rising grocery cost was a major concern for voters on Nov. 5, Congress should not make it harder for low-income folks to buy food. Whether they pass an extension or pass a new bill in the next few weeks, Sen. Josh Hawley, Sen. Eric Schmitt, Rep. Ann Wagner and Rep. Cori Bush should pass a Farm Bill that protects and strengthens SNAP.
Cynthia Changyit Levin
Town and Country
