The Power of One

The Power of One
Posted by Joel Einleger
I have very sad news about a remarkable man, coupled with an amazing story about his desire to inspire the Jewish community to action in ways that are humbling and a lesson to those of us who work to create social change.
Matt Fenster is the father of four young children and the husband of Jennifer – a wonderful and beloved family who are very active in my Riverdale Conservative shul community.   Last year Matt was diagnosed with leukemia, which galvanized a huge effort among family, friends and strangers to find a “Match for Matt”.  Bone marrow drives were held in communities in the US and Israel, resulting in matches not just for Matt, but for 19 other people as well.
Matt’s transplant was initially successful, but tragically the disease returned and he recently required a second transplant.  Throughout the ordeal, Matt and Jen have written regular updates about his condition to share with the many people who are concerned about his health and his family.  Their thoughts, worldviews, perspectives and wisdom, often written with a good dose of humor, are both provoking and inspirational.  At times their comments include reflections about the impact of Matt’s illness on their personal understanding of the Jewish holidays and customs of their family.
In Matt’s posting on Friday morning, he shared the numbing news that there are no further plans to try to treat the disease, and that he was coming home from the hospital.  Responding to offers to help him during his remaining time, he has made a single request:  to join him now in his commitment to avoid “lashon harah”, the prohibition against speaking negatively about someone to others.
I met with a friend shortly after reading this posting and told her about Matt’s condition and his request.  An hour later she forwarded to me an email she received from her sister, who knows Matt’s family and whose children attend SAR Academy with Matt’s children.  The school’s principal had just shared Matt’s posting and request with the whole school community.  At a Shabbat lunch the next day, I heard from another guest at the table that the rabbi from her synagogue had already asked his congregation to join with Matt to honor his not-so-simple request.
In a time when social media tools can facilitate the sharing of ideas instantly and have the power to inspire action… and foundations and organizations consider what kind of imprint they hope to leave on the Jewish community… I wonder whether the stark power of Matt’s wish will be respected for its thoughtfulness, kindness and wisdom by our community, and we will recognize the ability of one person to make a great impact.