Jewish Family Services The Charlotte Jewish News - Novemt)er, 1995 - Page 5 FALL REFLECTIONS By Laurie Gordon Harris, MSW, CCSW I, like most of you, spend a reflective period of time reminisc ing about the New Years of yester day: the excitement of something “happening,” days off from school and/or work, a distinctly familiar ritual, the feel and smell of autumn connected with the high holidays, the waiting in the shul’s lobby that seemed so crowded only on four or so days of the year. Where did these people come from and more impor tantly, where did they go? As the geriatric social worker for just over five years, I have the greatest privilege to work with people who know how to make a difference. This extends to the JFS - staff, exceptional volunteers, our board, and those individuals, couples, and families that we help. I witness the strength and dig nity of my clients who face losses everyday: health, memory, identity, energy. Yet, with these losses I hear the wisdom and knowledge only those who have accepted life’s chal lenges can say—^the only guarantee in life is change, so when you are lucky enough to see/feel/experience happiness, even if only fleetingly, really allow yourself to do so. Not to sound too trite, but without sad ness we can not measure happiness. Without light there is no shadow. So, publicly I want to thank those with whom 1 work, the individuals who open their homes to me, those who open their minds and hearts to me and who are willing to share a part of themselves that may be uncom fortable, frightening or vulnerable. Sometimes people need more than a counselor or therapist, they need supportive friends—someone to discuss interesting literature, practice foreign languages with, go in search of Charlotte’s best sand wich, go on an errand to Walmart/ Southpark/the grocery store, have a cup of coffee (or tea) with some one and possibly split, nah, share two different desserts with. If you feel you can possibly spare some time during the week to realize your new year pledges or to be more in volved in your community, perhaps you will consider volunteering in some way. Please consider JFS’ Mitzvah Maker volunteer program. Call 364-6594 for an applicati(Mi. You’ll receive so much more than you ever give. 1 wish each and everyone of you a peaceful and fulfilling New Year!! (Have you made the call yet?) JFS DIRECTORY WHO TO CALL FOR ASSISTANCE Adolescent Problems........Elise Rosenberg* Employment or Career Issues........Elise Rosenberg Financial Assistance........Adrienne Rosenberg* General Counseling........Elise Rosenberg Senior Concems........Lauri Gordon Harris* Volunteering to Help Others........Laurie Gordon Harris General Counseling........ Adrienne Rosenberg All Other Concerns........ Adrienne Rosenberg ALL CAN BE REACHED BY CALLING JEWISH FAMILY SERVICES All Services are Confidential and Are Provided by Professional Masters-Level Counselors. AT 364-6594 or 364-6596 Adrienne Rosenberg - MSW,ACSW* Elise Rosenberg - MSW,CCSW* L«urie Gordon Harris - MSW, CCSW * CHURCHILL GALLERIES ANTIQUES 364-3838 South Park Mall Outside Entrance (Between Montaklo's & Paul Simon) Fine Antiques & Decorative Objects Retail and Wholesale Estate Liquidations - Prop Rental Mon-Fii 9:30 a.m.-6:00 p.m.; Sat 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun 12:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Jewish Family Services would like you to be aware of their needs and their current “WISH LIST” • Friendly Visitors for the Frail Elderly • Electronic Menorahs • Administratively Gifted Volunteer • Food for JFS Food Pantry Thank You From Jewish Family Services Food Pantry Donations From: • Food Lion • Temple Israel • Sisterhood High Holiday Bakets From: Halailah • Arboretum Harris Teeter • Hadassah High Holiday Cards From: • Temple Israel's Daled Class Comprehensive Financial Planning ■ Estate ■ Retirement College 401K & Pension Plans For Individuals and Businesses Jiidie \ an (Mish \ k'l' i Nidcnl Merrill Lynch 100 North Tryon Street Suite 3600 Charlotte, NC 28202 (704)339-2080 Fax (704) 339-2110 l-(800) 937-0864 December Deadline is Friday November 10 People Protection in our Parks, Sell Old Convention Center, SeU (Hd Coliseum, Explore Light Rail, Consolidated City County Gvt., Tbougbtful Zoning and Land Planning, Ample Police Protection, Safer Neighborhoods... Paid tor by The M Roumo CommiOM Because... "Yta Deserve Better ^ Accessible II ^ Experienced ■■ ^ Businessman ^ 4 years Mayor Pro Tern ^ Attentive FALL SPECIAL Get A Full Size Decorative Flag For $890 With A $2000 Purchase. ♦No Other Discounts Apply PAPERTOWN 4420 Monroe Rd. (Across From Oakhurst School) 342-5815 ^ M-F • 9-6 Sat. 9-5 1996 MERCURY SABLE GS SAM lOHNSON UNCOLN MLRCURY 5201 EAST INOEPCNDENa iLVa • SSS-TSIO CHARLOTTE, NC