Viktor Frankl famously said: “When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.”
I met Sarah Dukes less than a year ago.
Her nephew was our son Ari’s good friend and she offered to host them at her house and drive them to the airport on their way to summer camp. All I knew was that a very nice lady graciously offered to do a favor for someone she didn’t know.
What I didn’t know at the time was that this gracious host was Sarah Dukes, who has 6 children of her own, is a psychotherapist, award-winning composer, and a busy woman to say the least. I would have never guessed how much she had going on. When we spoke, her voice was warm, soothing, and patient and I intuitively knew she was special. What I didn’t know was the extent of her kindness.
She became the friend I knew didn’t come around often and I was grateful to have met someone my age who could also be a role model for me.
Our friendship began to blossom when we finally met in New York (our first time meeting was at the Ohel- how apropos).
Shortly thereafter, her life turned upside down.
Yudi was in critical condition and no one knew if he would survive the night.
As I thought about what to say and how I could be the friend she needed, SHE called ME to make sure I was okay. I was supposed to be comforting her, not the other way around.
I was blown away, but not surprised.
This is a tiny glimpse of Sarah Dukes, who together with Yudi, who is the definition of a true mensch, have literally devoted their lives to helping others- through music, counseling, teaching, friendship, and simply through their amazing presence and energy.
Sarah’s smile radiates, but beneath it there is worry.
The road to recovery is long, arduous, and expensive.
These are trying times for all of us. But one thing I have learned to be true is that when it’s cold, you can put a jacket on and warm yourself, or you can light a fire and warm everyone.
We might not have the capacity to change what’s happening around us, but we can ignite the spark that will bring more light into this world with Yudi’s full and speedy recovery.
Please donate generously now to Bring Yudi Home at BringYudiHome.com
Very well written
may he have an immediate recovery! Moshiach now!