Who we are, far more than what we do, has the power to lift the world.
by Alison Bonds Shapiro, M.B.A. in Healing Into Possibility
Originally published online by Psychology Today
Ever since my friend, Joe, died, I have been reflecting on his life and the difference he made to so many people, including me. Before I ever met Joe, I knew his voice. For years, Joe and his brother Nathan wrote and performed and recorded music together. Nathan is a rabbi. Joe was a cantor. I have many of their recordings, all of which are treasures—full of grace, hope, compassion and love. Both had gorgeous voices, and the way their voices harmonized, being brothers, was impeccable. Making music together and teaching life’s lessons through their music were the core of both their lives.Then, more than 25 years ago, again before I ever met him, Joe was injured in a car accident while traveling out of the United States. Joe suffered a terrible brain injury and was a long way from sophisticated medical treatment when it happened. Close to death, Joe was ultimately transferred to high-tech medical facilities. Many people fought for Joe and Joe survived.
As a result of his brain injury, Joe’s physical abilities were deeply compromised. Nathan, who is a physical therapist as well as a rabbi, decided that he would work with Joe night and day to help Joe recover. Never before or since have I seen love between two brothers as deep as that between Joe and Nathan.
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