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By Jeff Agron - Co-President “All neshamas come from the same root, and that root connects us all, one to the other.” Lately, I have been thinking about the ever-increasing web of interconnectedness between members of our The Mussar Institute community. Owing largely, but not exclusively, to the use of electronic communications, like email, Skype and video conferencing, the members of TMI are forming communities both local and long distance. Dedicated volunteers from California to New York are working on programs together, creating new program offerings and updating existing programs. Va’adim and other Mussar groups are forming in new cities every week. There are people in cities across the globe who are studying together in person and by phone. This month I made the commitment to sign up for the Path of the Soul course. This program works through website technology, email and phone. I have now met a new chevruta and have a new va’ad. These are new friends that I have made and whose friendships I now cherish. TMI has also been experimenting with live video conferencing classes; this may be the trend of our future. Essentially, TMI has built a vibrant Mussar community throughout the world. This would not have been possible 20 years ago. Of course, none of this is a substitute for face to face interactions. That is why TMI has its annual kallah, which provides an opportunity for our community to meet in person. During the next year, TMI will be creating a new, multi-day retreat for experienced students as well as regional kallot for new or potential students. This means more face-to-face interaction among more students. Now that Chanukah is over, the days start to get longer; the light of day is steadily increasing; so too is our ever-expanding web of connections increasing. Thank you for being a part of our growing and vibrant Mussar community. |
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