They are, in many respects, natural-born activists. Even so, by the time most of our children reach high school or college, they have lost much of their idealism and inclination to become involved in various causes, especially Jewish ones. On Tuesday, November 4, the nation goes to the polls once again. Probably less than one third of eligible voters will cast their ballots in mostly local elections. American Jews constitute less than 3 percent of the United States population, but have been able to effectively campaign for our interests because of our disproportionately high involvement in politics.
Jewish history has much to teach any young person about becoming engaged in matters of state.
From Achashverosh s castle to the Clinton White House, we learn that our Jewish values can influence events and people in a positive manner. We can save lives. We can feed the hungry. We can free the slaves. In the process we perform mitzvot, and bring the world a little closer to our ideals.