As we approach Sukkot 5787/2026 there’s a big rain and wind nor’easter storm forecasted to hit Long Island and New England. Terrible timing for Sukkot to be so vulnerable to the elements. May everyone stay safe and dry, and hopefully all the Sukkot down there withstand the storm!
Now, where is Albany in all this? Turns out this particular storm is coming up the coast and turning eastward as it reaches Long Island. So while we might get some rain in Albany, we’re not supposed to get all that much, and probably none of that stormy wind. We’re on the periphery, actually the periphery of the periphery. We’re in the bluish zone just beyond the lighter green line.
Unless you’re a meteorologist, storms aren’t usually welcome and certainly not on Sukkos! But of course, there’s a takeaway lesson – and hopefully a positive, constructive one.
The Rebbe sometimes used a Yiddish expression, “mit a trask un a shturem” a stormy term to describe something getting done with tremendous passion and energy, with a huge splash and fanfare, and a loud, lively enthusiasm.
Now, the impact of this approach is not only for those directly in its path, but it also can have spillover impact to those on its periphery, even on the periphery’s periphery. Such joy and positivity can spread, it can be infectious, with rippling effects far beyond its original trajectory.
May we create many positive ripples starting within and spreading outwards – with impact far beyond what we ever imagined!