Take a moment to appreciate the privilege of living in a Malchut Shel Chesed, a kingdom of kindness, that is America, where Jews can live Jewishly and support Jewish causes as we choose.

Many people are successful in their chosen occupations but only some utilize the opportunity to become philanthropists and leaders, as Mervin Pregulman did, setting an example for others so that they too will generously support Jewish institutions in need.

In this week’s Torah portion, Noah is described as a righteous individual who constructs the ark and thereby saves all of humanity. While Noach was not perfect, as a leader of his generation he had a lasting and indelible impact.

To gain a greater appreciation of who Noah was and what he accomplished during his lifetime, read this enlightening analysis entitled “Noah: A Biblical Profile” from Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald’s Torah message for Noah 5768-2007. Out of respect for Shabbat, please consider printing it on Friday afternoon if you plan to read it on Shabbat.