By Rob Goldberg
In just a few days, my full-time chapter with the Buffalo Jewish Federation will end as I transition into a part-time role. I’m deeply grateful for the privilege of leading this remarkable organization over the past decade, and especially proud of the intentional transition we shaped—one that ushered in the inspiring leadership of my friend and successor, Miriam Abramovich.
As I enter this new chapter, I’m reminded of the Shehechiyanu—the blessing recited at moments of firsts, whether at a brit, under the chuppah, or on the first night of festivals: “Blessed are You, Adonai our God, Sovereign of the universe, who has given us life, sustained us, and brought us to this moment.” This prayer is a constant reminder that life—especially at moments of transition—is precious.
Although I passed the CEO mantle to Miriam in September and my daily tempo since then has shifted, I remain as engaged and fulfilled as ever. I’ve long drawn inspiration from Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel, whose words I first encountered in college: “Our goal should be to live life in radical amazement… to get up in the morning and look at the world in a way that takes nothing for granted.”
I see this moment in time not as an end, but as a sacred opportunity—to reassess, reprioritize, and embrace new pathways for growth. I’ve taken on new volunteer roles that stretch and challenge me. I’m committed to learning new things. Most recently, thanks to one of my teachers, Zahava Fried, I learned the Megillah trope for Purim—something I’ve always wanted to do.
King Solomon wrote in Ecclesiastes, “To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven.” Transitions like the one I’m about to experience are not interruptions—they are part of the hallowed rhythm of life.
I recently finished Gilead, the first in Marilynne Robinson’s deeply moving four-part series. Narrated by John Ames—a 76-year-old pastor in the fictional town of Gilead, Iowa—he writes a farewell letter to his young son, hoping he will “recognize the remarkable beauty in the world” and understand that “there are a thousand thousand reasons to live this life, every one of them sufficient.”
At this moment of personal transition, my message isn’t about work—it’s about life. It’s about embracing Ames’ idea that “this life has its own mortal loveliness.” It’s about cultivating a mindset of awe and attentiveness that transforms a new beginning into a sacred invitation—to dive deep into the wonder of each precious day.
Rob Goldberg is the former CEO of Buffalo Jewish Federation and currently serves as its Senior Advisor.
