Thanksgiving

By Julia Loeb, WLCJ International President

This week’s Torah portion, Toldot, is packed with drama—sibling rivalry, parental favoritism, trickery, and betrayal. When Isaac’s sons come to him seeking a blessing, he asks, “Who are you?” Their answers both deceive their father and themselves. Jacob claims to be Esau, his older brother. Esau, knowing he sold his birthright for a simple bowl of lentil stew, still insists on the blessing. Both believe they deserve the blessing, but their actions—and deceptions—tell a different story. The result? Pain for their father and years of family conflict. It takes quite a while, and several Torah chapters, before there is any meaningful reconciliation.

With Thanksgiving in the U.S. around the corner, let’s hope our family gatherings are a bit calmer than the tumult of Toldot. May any disagreements or stress we face be resolved with kindness and understanding, preferably before dessert.

The word Toldot means “generations,” which feels so fitting for Thanksgiving. Many of us are lucky enough to celebrate across generations, sharing food, memories, and traditions. It’s a beautiful reminder to pause and appreciate the blessings in our lives. Gratitude is deeply rooted in Judaism, and it’s more than just something we say—it’s who we are.

Indeed, the word “Judaism” comes from the Hebrew root hodu, which means “to give thanks.” Our faith places a huge emphasis on gratitude. We begin every day with Modah Ani, thanking God for returning our soul to us every morning.  The Torah and our sages encourage us to recognize the good in our lives, no matter how big or small. In a world where it’s easy to focus on what we lack; Judaism reminds us to see abundance and give thanks for it.

Gratitude in Judaism is expressed on three levels: recognition, action, and commitment. We must recognize our blessings, expressing thanks for them, and then acting on them. It’s not enough to feel grateful quietly; we’re encouraged to speak out loud and show appreciation through our actions. So, this weekend, take a moment to thank the people who bring you joy and meaning. Write a note, make a call, or spend time with them—whatever speaks from your heart.

On this Shabbat and Thanksgiving in the U.S., I especially want to thank my Women’s League sisters. I am deeply grateful for the incredible women who have welcomed me into their communities and homes, who have planned and participated in our events, and for our wonderful staff, Women’s League Board, and committees. Your dedication to engaging, enriching, and empowering Jewish women is truly inspiring.

In the spirit of gratitude, I’ll be giving tzedakah to Women’s League, a community that has given me so much. I hope you, too, will consider how you can show gratitude to the people and institutions that matter to you. Whether on Giving Tuesday or another occasion, let us give generously of our words and actions.

Our website has links to support Women’s League and vital organizations in Israel that work tirelessly to ensure Am Yisrael Chai—the enduring vitality of the Jewish people.

Wishing you a Shabbat Shalom, and a Thanksgiving filled with love, gratitude, and blessings shared across generations.

Shabbat Shalom,

Julia Loeb
WLCJ International President
jloeb@wlcj.org