The Coronavirus causes us all to feel a little bit vulnerable as we think and wonder: “How long will it last?” and “How far will it spread?” I can imagine that the people of Egypt were asking themselves the same thing as the devastating plagues were brought upon them.

The numbers are still relatively small in the United States. And the likelihood of our contracting the virus is more than uncertain. But still we wonder as we can’t help but feel some small measure of apprehension.

We all know the obvious precautions. And we will take them.But what comes to mind as I think of our Jewish tradition and any wisdom that it might have for us at the present time?

I am reminded of the words of Rabbi Nachman who lived centuries ago. He taught that “all of life is as the crossing of a narrow bridge, and the most important thing is not to be afraid.”Yes, those words speak a great truth, perhaps about this virus, but certainly about life and the perplexing challenges that we face. May it be that our fears do not keep us from living; from “crossing the bridge,” whatever that may mean to each of us.

I wish you a Sabbath of peace and tranquility. And I did read the other day that Israeli scientist believe that they are three weeks away from a cure. Let’s hope it’s true.

Rabbi David Greenberg