Adam Cohen, Leonard's son, sings of the message to
"Put your bags down" in life as it is easier to move forward without a heavy load. Adam talks about his father telling him a story of a man on a train carrying a heavy load. His destination was inevitable, but his ride would be more comfortable without holding his heavy baggage.
And this last tribute to LC is from the talent trove of
James Taylor and
Yo-Yo Ma with this beautiful rendition of
"Suzanne"
"Love is the only engine of survival"
Leonard Cohen
Since 2002, there have been 10 attempts made by anti-Israel groups to force the University of Michigan's Central Student Government to divest from Israel. The most recent was this week when the CSG (thankfully) voted against this latest resolution 34 to 13. How many resolution were brought against Russia or China or Saudi Arabia or Venezuela? Seems only Israel deserves condemnation. They must take their cues from the UN. Israel is the only democracy in the Middle East where all rights of all citizens are protected. Try being openly Gay in any neighboring Arab country or in the 76 countries where it is illegal. How many Jews sit on the Supreme Court of any Arab Nation? Zero.
Salim Joubran
is an Israeli Arab judge on the Supreme Court of Israel. There are Arab doctors, lawyers, engineers... all over the integrated State of Israel. Yes, peace between the Israelis and Palestinians has been elusive but it is strived for everyday by most Israelis and hopefully one day, it will arrive. In the meantime, those who hate Israel need to get their butts there to learn the truth about the country.
"Creators care nothing for their systems
except that they be unique."
Leonard Cohen
Other than China and Canada, guess which foreign country has the largest footprint at the
New York Stock Exchange. The teeny tiny young State of Israel. And because Israel is a beacon of gender equality, many of the companies are lead by women. Bravo to the New York Stock Exchange for recognizing Israeli companies last week with a salute to several women-run businesses.
"You go your way, I'll go your way too"
Leonard Cohen
Bravo to this year's
Presidential Medal of Freedom awardees. On Nov. 22nd, twenty one exceptional people will be presented their awards by our (soon to be missed) POTUS at the White House. This honor was established back in JFK's presidency and acknowledges those who've achieved advances in our National Interest, World Peace, Cultural Accomplishment and Private/Public Endeavors. Here are just few of the winners,
Kareem Abdul Jabbar, Ellen DeGeneres, Robert De Niro, Bill and Melinda Gates, Tom Hanks, Michael Jordan, Robert Redford, (Detroit bred)
Diana Ross, Bruce Springsteen and Cicely Tyson. Here is the complete list:
"When things get really bad, just raise your glass and stamp your feet and do a little jig. That's about all you can do."
Leonard Cohen
Life is
Fragile with unexpected twist and turns. Here is
Sting singing his famous song at last week's first anniversary of the Paris terrorist attack at the
Bataclan.
"...and every breath we drew was Hallelujah"
Leonard Cohen
The holiday of Thanksgiving is nearly here and even with an unknown daunted future, we still have much to be thankful for. Though democracy is messy and complicated, it sure beats the alternative. We do live in a great country and shouldn't take our freedoms or obligations for granted. No matter who the president is, let's continue to make sure our lives and the lives of our family, friends and community is improving. Our health and happiness is also a blessing. Wishing a healthy future to those in need of Refuah Shlema (complete healing). May you all be surrounded by cherished friends and family this Thanksgiving holiday.
Wishing you and your family
a Sweet and Peaceful Shabbat and a
Meaningful Thanksgiving Celebration.
Lisa
