Jubilee Memories

"There is no doubt that CBE is a unique and special place for most of our diverse membership. I would anticipate that those members who respond to this great idea of memorialize YOUR favorite memory of CBE will focus of the religious element, the inclusiveness, the music created by Rabbi Jamie and Laura that has added zest and familiarity to the services, the smiling faces of old and young alike, our presence in the Evergreen Community and our participation in the religious and civic communities.

I am sure many "favorite" memories will center on personal experiences, the call for help when there was no one else to turn to, the charity we provide with a smile, feeling extremely fortunate to have a home to go to after helping to feed the homeless, etc.

When I was serving as Treasurer and Chairman of the Budget Team, my friend Marilyn Saltzman, who was so instrumental in helping CBE reach its potential and focus, decided to have a Board retreat. We assembled at the Shul and she started the marathon session which we were all asked to answer.

The question was "What does CBE mean to you and what would you like to gain from your membership?" When my turn came up, I said "I really cannot answer these questions because my religious and spirituality needs are constantly changing.  But being pressed by Marilyn, (she is short, but gets the job done!), I came up with the mantra that as time and circumstances change. I would like CBE to have been visionary to provide most of our needs, even if they were in the background.

A year and a half ago, I was notified by my medical team at Anshutz, that my name was being added to the millions of men who have fallen victim the most common disease for men, prostate cancer. On that day, my life has turned upside-down. After the denial, bargaining, etc, my wife Jamie turned to the only resource who could put this into perspective without the litany of platitudes and "you will be fine" or "this is God's plan". That person was Rabbi Jamie Arnold, Ph.D

We should all know The Rabbi's personality, compassion, ability to distill a complex issue to 1 or 2 major points, and his inborn desire to HELP.

Rabbi Jamie and my Jamie and I spent almost 3 hours discussing everything from he Jewish perspective on death and dying, assisted suicide and the entire process from passing to burial. He did not offer one platitude, well maybe one little one I almost missed, and as is his wont, was thoughtful before he spoke, evoked a three way conversation, and quietly listened to our responses. This continued for quite awhile.

When we left, none of us were singing Hava Nagila, but my Jamie and I left with a different perspective from this very wise, caring and gentile man. Although I have accepted my disease and the consequences of such, his words and concern was everything I expected from a rabbi, especially MY Rabbi. I will be forever in his debt for being so sweet, respectful. caring, focused and such a good friend." - Stephen Bernstein, longtime member