A recent article in the New York Times discussed current research into “emotional efficiency: how to reap the most happiness for your dollar.” (“But Will It Make You Happy?, Stephanie Rosenbloom, The New York Times, August 7, 2010).
The article states, among other things, that we find more happiness when we spend our money on experiences as opposed to material objects. An experience” produces longer-lasting satisfaction than spending money on plain old stuff.” (“But Will It Make You Happy?”). The reason for this, apparently, is that experiences usually strengthen social bonds and social bonds make us happier.
This is exactly why so many people find that being part of the Temple Sholom community is such an important part of their lives. The experiences we have here—worship, education, social justice activities, meeting friends, and so on—bring us together with others. We truly are a community of communities, with many different people connecting with each other in different ways and at different times.
One memorable experience that is coming up soon at our Temple is our Rosh Hashanah Family Service on September 9th at 9:00 AM. This is the perfect opportunity to experience Judaism with our children and grandchildren. What better way to create lasting memories than to welcome the New Year as a family? Indeed, the NY Times article points out that the reason experiences bring us more happiness is that in contrast to an object, we can remember them. When our children and grandchildren grow up, we hope that they will have positive memories of their Jewish experiences so that they in turn will want their children to live active Jewish lives. This New Year is a great time for us to continue creating Jewish memories for our children and grandchildren—the experiences are truly priceless.
I look forward to seeing you all over the High Holy Days and I wish you a good and sweet 5771.
L’shalom,
Rabbi Laurence W. Groffman
Visit the new Temple Sholom page on Facebook. Click 
