As we gather on this New Year and we look for role models around us, let us be wise to learn from those whose example shines for us in our contemporary world and let us look into our ancient tradition for both role models and for those who display the attributes we want to avoid. Let us learn from those around us and those who came before.

But, let us also look for role models in unexpected places. Let us use our hearts and our minds to learn from those who, thanks to creativity and imagination, are ours to treasure forever.

And, so let us learn.

From Schroeder, who played the most beautiful piano music with his talented hands on a toy piano, let us learn to take the simple instruments we have: our hands, our voices, our hearts, and make the most beautiful music, rising above all of our limitations to make the best use of the talents we have been given.

From Linus, who carried his security blanket everywhere, let us learn to treasure the things which bring us security in the world: holding tight to family, friends and faith to help us to steer our way through the difficult days ahead.

From Lucy, who showed brash hutzpah, let us learn to face this world with confidence but let us figure out a way to leave the arrogance behind and make room for others and respect them.

From Pig Pen, who perpetually walked in a cloud of dust, let us really be a part of this world, let us get dirty doing good deeds, let us feel the earth between our fingers and our toes and let us rejoice in a love of the world we live in.

From Charlie Brown, who always came back for more, let us learn to trust even if we get hurt on occasion, learn to plan, even if the rest of the world laughs and learn to get back on the pitchers mound again even after we get hit so hard that it knocks us over.

And finally from Snoopy, let us love our meals, let us love our homes and let us always dance with joy and always, always let us dream great things.

Robert Dobrusin, Rabbi
Copyright © 2006, Robert Dobrusin.
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This message was originally posted on September 28, 2006.

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