September 1, 2023
The other day, my wife said to me, “You didn’t listen to a word I said!” and I thought, “What a strange way to start a conversation…”
It’s a funny joke, but like all humor, there is more than a grain of truth to it. We’ve all been in the position of the wife or husband, having either not been listening or speaking and someone hasn’t been listening to us.
I have had some conversations with people who have different political views than mine. Years ago, it seemed that we could have a civil discussion about our different views, but lately, it seems like everyone is so firm in their opinions that there is little chance of finding common ground.
How can FJMC help make us better listeners? Why, with practice, of course!
FJMC is at the forefront of COMBATING ANTISEMITISM. We’re partnering with other Men’s Clubs in all and any faiths, Christian and Muslim, to build relationships. Every group is under attack from someone else and if we listen, really listen to their issues and they hear ours, it’s harder to hate someone once you get to know them.
We are working to remove the stigma that surrounds mental health issues. Our IMAGINE LIFE program makes the Jewish community aware of issues that tear many families apart and offers assistance to help people navigate through these serious illnesses. This can only be successful when we pay attention to our brothers and sisters who are in need.
WE SUPPORT OUR CLUBS 100%! If they need new ideas or have challenges, we are there to listen and help. We even have a specialized group of very experienced members to assist the clubs – the 311 guys. If the streetlight near your house is out, or there’s a big pothole in your street, you dial 311 for assistance. If our clubs need some help, they contact the 311 guys and help is on the way. Fast and free! Send the call for help for your club to club.consultants@fjmc.org.
Our HEARING MEN’S VOICES gives guys a chance to share meaningful subjects openly with each other in a safe, welcoming environment. If we listen to each other, we can offer support to one another.
The members of the Executive Committee are ready, willing and able to listen to our members’ concerns. In fact, everyone will have an opportunity to meet me and our new Executive Director Rabbi Noam Raucher on September 11, 2023 on Zoom. Please CLICK HERE to register. You will be heard!
So, let’s pledge to listen, really listen when others are speaking, particularly those with whom we disagree. Perhaps we can find that there is more that unites us than divides us.
In Brotherhood
Alan Budman
International President, 2023 – 2025
This message from FJMC International President Alan Budman is brought to you by the Florida Region of the Federation of Jewish Men’s Clubs (FJMC). We are part of a confederation of over 200 Jewish Men’s Clubs and Brotherhoods representing over 20,000 members across the United States, Canada, Latin America, and beyond. Learn more about how your Jewish Men’s Club or Brotherhood can affiliate with the FJMC at: https://www.fjmc.org/content/affiliating-fjmc.
The Florida Region of FJMC serves the needs of affiliated Men’s Clubs and Brotherhoods throughout the State of Florida. Get to know more about the FJMC Florida Region and our growing network of Jewish Men’s Clubs and Brotherhoods at www.floridaregionfjmc.org and please visit and LIKE our Florida Region FJMC Facebook Group at www.facebook.com/FloridaRegionFJMC.
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