Chabad of Malibu's annual awards gala takes place Saturday night.
This Sunday evening, millions of people will tune in to watch the Academy Awards. People receiving recognition and awards for their accomplishments appears to be a good idea. Competition seems to bring out the best in people, and the desire to be a "winner" is woven into the very fabric of our yearning spirits.
I recall once watching the faces of the nominees during those painful few seconds when the presenter was opening the sealed envelope. I recall being able to feel the deep anxiety of the nominees. The seconds for them must have felt like hours. Imagine, all that built-up energy and in just a few seconds they would be reading either the "winner" speech ("I don't want to forget ...") or they would be internalizing, "You are not a winner!"
And each time the big moment comes and the winner is announced, the camera moves immediately to the winner. It is very similar to American Idol when it's down to two people and the winner is announced—and the number two suddenly is history.
When you witness the sheer joy on the face of the winner for the Academy Award or on the face of the American Idol, you can feel their joy. But I recall years ago a passing fantasy as I observed the Academy Awards. Imagine if such excitement could be generated from a different type of winning, an award show for people who demonstrate a perfection in categories like kindness and compassion.
When I first began writing this column in May of last year, I began with the theme It remains the name of the column. This name was chosen because I firmly believe there are certain enduring values that live "over the rainbow." Imagine living a life with no anger, hate or jealousy? That would truly be over the rainbow!
My experience has been that, regardless of political or ideological differences, there is a universal transcendent appreciation that we humans have toward people who are deeply caring and good.
It has been many years since that wonderful fantasy. On the eve of this year's Academy Awards, this thought occurred to me: our annual fundraiser and auction benefiting our children's programs was moved from Sunday to Saturday night to accommodate those who wanted to watch the awards show. Together with our loving and dedicated team, we have decided to use our annual event to hand out our own type of Oscars.
For example, many of you know one of our "nominees" in the category of "A Good heart." I remember first meeting 18 years ago. Her kindness has reached out to and touched the hearts of so many people. Today, Dede is part of the leadership team at Gan Malibu Preschool. When I found out that she was up for an "award" in this category, I wanted to give it the loudest vote I could! I can't believe it, I can already feel the butterflies. Will she actually be the winner?
Our awards show will not be aired live in 200 countries ... perhaps one day. But you are welcome to join in person, for our "awards ceremony" while there is still space available.