CANTOR’S CORNER

Cantor Eyal Bitton shares a few thoughts on prayer and the parasha of the week.

2023-07-29 Parashat Va’etchanan

Do not go gentle into that good night,
old age should burn and rave at close of day;
Rage, rage against the dying of the light. 

Though wise men at their end know dark is right,
Because their words had forked no lightning they
Do not go gentle into that good night. 

In Dylan Thomas’ classic poem, “Do not go gentle into that good night,” we are reminded of the value of fighting against the dying of the light, of refusing to simply accept the inevitable and instead raging against it. It is a call to action, a reminder that we must strive to make the most of our time on this earth and leave a legacy that will endure long after we are gone.

This sentiment is echoed in the prayer “Modim,” where we express our gratitude for the many blessings we have received, including our lives and our souls, which are in God’s care. We are reminded that our time on this earth is a gift, and that we must use it wisely to make a positive impact in the world: “We thank You… for our lives that are in Your hands… Your gifts are with us each moment.”

These ideas are particularly relevant to this week’s parasha, Va’etchanan, which recounts the many accomplishments of Moses and his enduring legacy. Moses understood the value of his life and his work, and he wanted to ensure that his people and their children would continue to benefit from his wisdom and leadership long after he was gone.

What about those who are not as fortunate as Moses, who have not achieved greatness in their lives? Dylan Thomas speaks of men who have lived their lives in regret, who have not made the most of their time on this earth. These are men who have not “forked lightning” with their words and deeds, who have not made a lasting impact.

But it is never too late to start living a life of purpose and meaning. As we reflect on our own mortality, we are reminded that every day is a gift, and that we have the power to make a difference in the world. We must strive to live each day with intention, to make the most of every opportunity, and to leave a positive legacy that will endure long after we are gone.

So let us take inspiration from Moses and Dylan Thomas alike, and let us endeavor to live lives of purpose and meaning, making the most of every day and leaving a lasting impact on the world. Let us strive to be the best versions of ourselves, and to make a positive difference in the lives of those around us.