Why Is This Day Different From All Other Days?

On all other days, it's business as usual. On this day, we take a step back to gain new perspective on ourselves, on New Orleans, and on the world.

Today is the first day of Passover, the celebration of G-d's redeeming the Hebrew slaves from Egypt. It marks the beginning of a week filled with family, tradition, ritual, food (though restricted), and for many, thoughtful reflection.

Today is also the last day of our time here volunteering in New Orleans. It marks the end of a week filled with friends, hard work, learning, celebrating, and thoughtful reflection. But it's also a beginning for this team -- the beginning of a strong community at CSUN committed to service and social justice. The beginning of a new understanding of the differences that separate us and the commonalities that unite us. The beginning of a movement among students to make a difference in their world - globally and locally.

I am inspired by this team's investment in their own experience. Each person contributed something of him or herself to make this ASB meaningful for all of us. Each member of the team has made a commitment to utilize this trip as a catalyst for action at home. My own spirit is buoyed by their unbridled enthusiasm and optimism.

There is only one thing left to say: Thank you.


Renée Cohen Goodwin
Executive Director
CSUN Hillel (Jewish Student Center)