‘We Will Not Be Intimidated by Fear’

Watching with scenes of horror this week, I shared in the nation’s pain.

A former New Yorker and visitor to the Twin Towers, I can hardly imagine any words of comfort to offer. My soul feels for the thousands hurt by acts of terrorism. It boggles my mind and saddens the heart.

I run a Jewish center in Lomita. It houses a day-care center, a day camp and a school.

Every morning I greet our children, their parents, grandparents and the staff. It is important for them to see their rabbi showing a true interest in their well-being. First impressions are lasting impressions. I love my students and staff and take a personal interest in their lives.

They are as safe as ever.

Since Tuesday’s attack, my center has been called and visited by city councilmen, the city manager, sheriff’s department and reporters. All want to know what we are doing for the kids’ safety.

Some Jewish groups want to make sure that we have the proper protection. They suggested we hire an armed guard, and/or install special video recorders and high-tech surveillance cameras connected to the authorities. I understand that many of my religious colleagues think that the only thing to do is to fortify our schools and community centers.

But by doing so, they will not protect the children; rather, they will hurt them by teaching them to never again feel safe being in a religious area. With the Jewish New Year next week, some people no doubt will stay away from our houses of prayer.

Let me say this for all to hear: I am not hiring security guards for my center. My kids are of an impressionable age--the crucial sponge years, as they are called. I don’t want them to think that a Jewish school in America needs armed guards.

We are not going to install metal detectors, cement barriers or bulletproof windows.

I will not submit to intimidation or become a hostage to fear.

I do not appreciate being called by Jewish leaders urging us to close our school every time there is a terrorist attack.

No intelligent person can believe that keeping a child out of school and instead having them spend the day in front of a TV set will help them grow correctly.

It’s our job as educators to see that schools stay open.

We need to show that we believe in our country and will deal with this crisis.If the public schools are open and safe then it’s good enough for me and my school.

I have a good staff, strong locks and iron gates and the protection of the local Sheriff’s Department. I also have lots of faith in the Almighty God for the ultimate protection.

Yes, some Arabs in the Middle East cheered the attack and gave out candy proclaiming some kind of victory against democracy. That is a problem for the world, not just Jews.

In due time, justice will be carried out. If anything, this week’s tragedy will bring all Americans together. And not because they are afraid.