It’s a snowy and blustery day, here in New York. The trees look mummified and the Evergreens are wilted.

Just a few days ago we celebrated Tu B’Shevat, the Jewish Arbor Day and the New Year for the trees. This is a winter holiday and in many places, around the world we gather for a Seder. At the Seder table you will find figs, dates, pomegranates, olives, grapes, and cakes. The focus of the Seder is an appreciation of trees: what they bare and their shelter.It is also a reminder to us to look around to those in the community who are hungry and to be generous to them.

Celebrating trees at this cold time of year gives us hope, joy, and knowledge that no matter what the circumstances of our lives, things will get better and we can shake off the winter’s bluster.