My question this week is, what does fearless friendship mean to you?

I came here with my family as an immigrant when I was 7. I certainly came with privilege and at 16 became a US citizen. I came as a Jew with an understanding that the United States was a land of freedom and acceptance.

And when I came I made friends – lots of friends from lots of places. There was Leila from Iran, Sisko from Japan, Karen whose parents are from Korea. Of course, I made many American born friends. Together they all made my life more complete. I learned about their holidays like Ramadan, Easter and Thanksgiving. What a beautiful world to be a part of.

That’s what fearless friendship means to me. It is a gift I treasure every day. So I invite you to share this wonder.

There are two events coming up that I hope you will consider attending. The first is this Sunday, called Standing Silence – Fearless Friendship – you can see the details below. It is a critical time for us to speak out about our common humanity to speak up and let the Supreme Court know that we do not support a Muslim ban AND we stand with the dreamers (and their families) that as came as children – just like me – to live out a life of peace and happiness.

I also bring your attention to another event on Wednesday sponsored by Congregation Bet Haverim and Compassionate Atlanta – Syria and Beyond. What can we do as fearless friends and human beings when we see the plight of others in such uprooted turmoil? It might feel overwhelming. Don’t retreat. Be bold and show up. Hear the stories and know that we all have the capacity to make a difference. One person, one family, one community at a time.

We need you! I know you’re out there. So, be my friend, my fearless friend. I’ll hold your hand along the way so that you know you’re not alone.

Leanne Rubenstein 
Executive Director 
Compassionate Atlanta