Rabbi displayed courage and compassion

I have been a member of the Tree of Life Congregation for more than 35 years. For a little more than a year, I have been proud to say that Rabbi Hazzan Jeffrey Myers is my rabbi. The past few days have elevated my respect, admiration, esteem and love for him. I have watched as he, from the eye of the storm, through dealing with the aftermath and the press coverage, to the conducting of funerals, has displayed courage and composure, compassion and strength, and dignity and kindness beyond measure. However, what he did on Tuesday was extraordinary.

I understand that nearly every government and public figure was vocal in his opposition to President Donald Trump visiting Pittsburgh on Tuesday. I also appreciate the courage of Rabbi Myers, having a totally different role to play, as he welcomed the president who came to pay his respects to the Tree of Life.

Lest anyone think there was one iota of politics in this, I urge you to take time to read “Thoughts from Rabbi Myers,” a wonderful weekly email. You will quickly learn that on nearly every significant issue, Rabbi Myers’ view of the world couldn’t be more different than that of the president.

The point is that, at this time of mourning, reflection and healing, Rabbi Myers acted in a totally nonpolitical manner, an action that put him in opposition to most of his congregants as well as most of the people in his community. I don’t, for a moment, demean the actions of those who did not wish to have the president come to the city at this time; they had different roles to play. Rabbi Myers, especially as a newcomer, had to know that this might jeopardize his standing in his synagogue and the community, but, in spite of that risk, he chose to do what he thought was the right thing to do. He exhibited courage and I’m so proud to call him my rabbi. JOEL COSLOV Squirrel Hill