The Power of Asking Questions

Passover Reflection from Alan Sataloff

It’s often easy to take our freedom for granted. We go about our busy lives and we don’t often stop and think about the privilege of living in a free country. Next week, when we gather around our Seder tables for Passover, we will reflect on our ancestors’ escape from slavery in Egypt and, for a moment, focus on what religious, social and political freedom truly means.

A central part of the Passover Seder is the Four Questions, a coming of age tradition reserved for the youngest child. From a very early age, we are encouraged to be inquisitive, ask questions, challenge authority and not accept the status quo. The very act of asking why is a simple, yet profound way, of exercising our rights, ultimately a deep expression of who we are—a connection to tradition and pathway to the future.

Asking why—or why not— is fundamental to our free society. We are free to challenge leadership, free to express our opinions and free to honor holidays, religion and faith as we choose. One of my favorite things around the holiday is to listen to how my friends and co-workers celebrate Passover. Some are traditional, others are far from it, while many are still finding the path and rituals that feel right and most meaningful. Freedom to celebrate Passover, or any Jewish holiday, as we choose is a powerful privilege not to be underestimated.

So whether you use a Haggadah passed down for generations, celebrate with a chocolate Seder, a private Seder, a public Seder or Seder filled with new friends, I wish you a warm and Happy Passover. Take time to celebrate community, family, friends and, of course, freedom.

Happy Passover!