The Power of Friendship

By Bruce Tomar

“The colors of the rainbow, so pretty in the sky
Are also on the faces of people going by
I see friends shaking hands, saying, “How do you do?”
They’re really sayin’, “I love you””

What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong – 3^rd stanza

Life without amiable companionship was unthinkable to the sages of the Talmud. The benefits of friendship are appreciated by the Jewish tradition. From Ecclesiastes we get “Two are better than one because they have a good reward for their labor. For if one falls, the other will lift up his fellow, but woe to him that is alone when he falls, for he has not another to help him up.”

In our brotherhood of FJMC, friendship is more than a social connection. Friends offer each other help, loyalty, protection, support, unselfish love and moral guidance. Judaism defines friendship as one of the primary relationships in life.

Susan Case DeMari

Susan Case DeMari, former community security coordinator for the Buffalo Jewish Federation, recently wrote in the Federation newsletter:

“Friendship transcends geographical, cultural, and religious boundaries. Within Judaism, it carries unique significance, shaped by centuries of history, persecution, and an enduring emphasis on community. Examining Jewish friendships means considering not only personal bonds but also the broader sense of communal security these relationships foster.”

So, reach out – touch somebodies’ hand – make this a better world if you can.

Yours in brotherhood and friendship,

Bruce Tomar

Bruce Tomar is president of FJMC International