The Jewish holiday of Purim began last night and concludes tonight.

During Purim, it is traditional to retell the biblical story of the Book of Esther, referred to as the Megillah. Haman, the king's advisor, plots to destroy the Jews. Neither Haman nor the King know that Queen Esther is Jewish. With the help of her cousin Mordechai, Esther reveals her identity in an effort to save the Jews. What begins as a tale of gloom and grief has a happy ending, except for Haman. Of course this story is also a parable and one lesson, still relevant for today, is that one individual, courageously speaking up, can make a difference. The holiday is celebrated among Jews by exchanging gifts of food known as mishloach manot, donating charity to the poor, and public reading of the Megillah. Normally, children dress up in costume for Purim parties (much like Halloween or any given Friday in PCC) and to hear the Megillah; they make a lot of noise whenever Haman’s name is mentioned.

Happy Purim (and don’t forget to speak up).
Mitch