My parents had mighty shoulders. Their greatest strength was their remarkable courage. Elizabeth (Suzie) and Joseph Wilf z’’l, pushed with determined spirits and a commitment to life against Polish antisemitism. Holocaust survivors, they came to America and, like so many of their generation, started again. It is more than any of us can imagine, more than I can imagine and yet it was only one generation ago. I stand in awe of them.
Tikkun Olam was not a slogan for Suzie and Joseph Wilf, it was their north star. The birth of the modern state of Israel made their dream come true. My commitment to the State of Israel is a sacred link to their ideals and hopes, now the hopes of our family.
While I admit I also dream of a Minnesota Vikings Super Bowl win, my heart overflows with gratitude that I had the opportunity to participate in activities such as Super Sunday fundraising events. That’s the place my own values and visions were shaped and where my commitment to taking care of the other is rooted.
I still hold their hand tightly when I walk in the room to raise funds even today. Welcoming Russian immigrants in my community was what defined a win in my parents’ home. They placed in my arms the deep understanding that doing what is right is everything. Living up to their charge is how I best honor their memory. Our children know their story.
Modeling their commitment to community is how I know they will do the same, please G-D. Handing this legacy from one generation to the next and the next is the holiest work my wife Jane and I can do in this world.
Mark Wilf is the owner/president of the Minnesota Vikings and Chair of the Jewish Agency for Israel Board of Governors. www.gardenhomes.com
