The Hebrew month of Adar is the harbinger of gladness when we need it most. With so many reminders about the capriciousness of our existence, our sacred texts teach us that celebration is not frivolous.  Joy and laughter can bring blessing and redemption.

Rabbi Sarah E. Mack is the senior rabbi of Temple Beth-El where she has served since 2003. She sits on the executive committee of the RI Interfaith Coalition to Reduce Poverty and on the board of the Center For Reconciliation. She has also worked with community partners to encourage interfaith youth dialogue between Jewish, Muslim and Christian teens.