The bravery continues! Right after finishing his morning prayers, Netanel Crispe, a 3rd year student at Yale University, bravely stood in the middle of an anti-Israel crowd on a chair and loudly sang:  “Am Yisrael Chai” (The Nation of Israel Lives!)  Amidst the hatred, he became a beacon of light and hope. It’s a reminder that in darkness, a small candle can illuminate an entire room… and a small light can illuminate the entire world. So if you can’t find the light in the darkness… become it! * As I mentioned yesterday, the timing of these acts of courage could not be more fitting! In this week’s parsha (Torah portion), Avraham embarks on his Lech Lecha journey into the unknown. Avraham was called the “ish ivri” because all the masses walked on one side of the river, and he walked on the other. (Ivri comes from the Hebrew word “ever” (the other side), as in “the other side of the river.” Ideologically, Avraham walked on “the other side.”) He walked alone, choosing to live a life of truth rather than a life of social acceptance. A true leader must always be willing to commit to the right path, even if he or she is the only one doing so. * The lonely path can also be the very means of self-discovery and self-transformation. Sometimes one can see most clearly once they have distanced themselves from their current surroundings, as this gives them the ability to rethink, redirect, and then return with newfound purpose and meaning. Avraham completely removed himself from his idolatrous culture. Moshe spent many decades alone in the desert and on the run from Pharaoh, building his clarity and understanding of life before returning to lead the Jewish People.  David HaMelech grew up as an outcast before being appointed as king by Shmuel.  This is not always necessary, but often, a step back leads to a giant step forward. This is why teenagers who leave their homes in chutz la’aretz (outside Israel) and spend time learning Torah in Israel often find it immensely transformative for their spiritual development. * These are definitely lonely times; but with that comes incredible opportunity. May we all be inspired to embark on our own Lech Lecha journey; as individuals, there is always a certain existential loneliness in seeking the ultimate truth; but at the heart of our individual Lech Lecha journey is the realization that we’re part of something infinitely greater than ourselves; and it’s in that realization that we find a deep sense of connection, togetherness, and purpose!