From Silence to Action: A Collective Voice in Troubled Times Raising the Barr Weekly Memo: Issue 560

Tonight, as I sit down to write this newsletter, my heart is heavy with a mix of dread and hope. Many of you know my background as an Israeli, a veteran, and a reservist of the Israel Defense Forces. I watch the unfolding events in my homeland, concerned for my family and friends and those who are reservists now called up for active duty. But this isn’t just my struggle; it’s a global one. Regardless of politics, I believe we all understand the fundamental differences between right and wrong, good and evil, war and terrorism.

In times like these, we lean on our families, friends and communities for support. Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel, a leading Jewish philosopher of the 20th century, once said there are three ways to mourn: to remain silent, to cry out our tears, and to transform our sorrow into song. So, how can we all transform our collective sorrow into something meaningful?

The answer lies in the power of community and actionable insights. Use your platforms to create spaces for meaningful discussions around these issues. Share articles, data, and other resources that can educate and inform your audience about the complexities of the situation. If possible, support organizations that are working to provide aid and relief to affected communities.

I’ve been closely following the live news feed from Israel, and I’m heartened by the resilience and resolve of the Israeli troops and the incredible support of the entire nation of Israel. But resilience alone isn’t enough; it must be coupled with action. I initially hesitated to write about such a heavy topic in a business newsletter. But then I realized that our businesses are a reflection of our values and our communities.

Let’s support each other in these trying times, not just with words and prayers, but with meaningful actions that can bring about change. In the words of Martin Luther King, Jr., “In the end, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends.” Let’s ensure that our collective voice is anything but silent.

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