In today’s selfie-obsessed world, it can be difficult to feel encouraged to do for others (let alone unto them).
Fortunately, there are fun and handy guides like Jamie Kiffel-Alcheh’s new book Kol Hakavod(Way to Go!) that offer a wide range of reminders about everyday opportunities.
Don’t let the Hebrew title fool you- this book is for everyone! After all, who does not go through a day without seeing someone needing a seat on the bus or train more than they do or watching a new employee or visitor struggle with the local culture or a piece of trash left behind by someone who has apparently not read this book (if they are literate at all)?
These and other examples are used by Kiffel-Alcheh (and her illustrative partner, Sarah Jayne-Mercer) to show how simple it can be to help out (which is called in Hebrew tikkun olam– repair of the world) and how great it can be to hear “Kol hakavod” (which is most often translated into “all the respect”), if only in your mind’s ear.
Maybe if we paid attention more to that voice inside than to the loud obnoxious ones outside, the world would indeed be a better place!
In any case, Kol Hakavod (Way to Go!) is a poetic push towards positivity that should be welcome in every home and heart.
– Matt Robinson
