Paul on Daniel’s life in Israel

Dear Daniel,

My name is Austin Zoot, and I believe we’ve met a few times. I was at HUC a year or two ahead of you and am a product of the Movement.

I wanted to offer my deepest condolences for the death of your father. He was a true mensch, and had such a powerful impact on me and so many like me in the URJ Youth world. There are people all over the world who are leading powerfully Jewish lives because of your dad, and his memory is a blessing to so many of us.

I remember once talking to your dad about you. I vividly remember him talking about you living in Israel and saying “when you spend an entire childhood teaching your child the beauty of Israel, it’s hard to be sad when they choose to move there.” I know he was incredibly proud of you, and I hope you know that too.

I’m sending you and your family my best wishes and support. If there is any way I can be supportive, I’m here for you as a colleague and friend in whatever ways you can imagine. If you ever need someone to talk to and don’t know who to call, I know I’m a bit of a stranger, but there’s no such thing between Jews let alone rabbis.

I hope this new year brings with it many opportunities to remember him fondly and many opportunities for joy and gladness, even as we navigate the complexity of loss and grief.

Shana Tova,

Austin Zoot