I have experienced an amazing week in Israel.  Along with my partners and friends at the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the Jewish Federation is proud to have worked in organizing the SA to Israel trade mission, led by Mayor Ron Nirenberg.  A group of approximately eighteen individuals, from various industries and with various roles in the city, have spent this past week learning about what makes Israel fertile ground for innovation and a strong ecosystem for fostering growth of industry and talent.  We met with start-ups, investors, city officials and others in the fields of cyber security, bio technology, higher education and more.  We also experienced the culture of Israel, learning how this young society has managed to integrate cultures, while also challenged by its diversity.   We tasted extraordinary flavors and exchanged ideas with each other along the way.  I am certain that the knowledge  gained from this trip will bear great fruits for our San Antonio community.

For me, it is all about relationships. And I now have seventeen more friends in San Antonio than I did a week ago.  I am confident that this mission will have been successful because I know that those of us on this trip have a connection with each other that is profound.  We can better work together in our own community because we are in true relationships with each other. 

The other important ingredient in progress is self-reflection.  Forward movement requires a security of self that is not afraid of what will come when one steps out of one's comfort zone.  When we can get out of our own way, then we can also see ourselves in a better light.  I know that I do that best when I am not home, and his week afforded me the time and space to think and reflect. 

Abraham did that.  He had to leave home to be able to see what lay ahead for him and for the future he was destined to fulfill.  It is no coincidence that our trade mission experienced Israel this week, the week of reading Lech Lecha.  We have all been able to step back from ourselves and gain greater insight into a brighter future for San Antonio. 

Shabbat shalom.