In the journey towards equality and inclusivity, allyship plays a pivotal role, especially within the LGBTQ community. It's a journey that demands stepping out of comfort zones, questioning norms, and challenging societal biases. Being an ally is not about just nodding in agreement or offering empty words of support; it's about actively advocating for change, even when it's uncomfortable. The essence of true allyship lies in its discomfort – allyship is not comfortable.

During last week’s GOP presidential debate, the candidates punted on climate change. Vivek Ramaswamy exuberantly declared, “climate change is a hoax.” Nikki Haley, whose debate performance was otherwise reasonable, thinks China and India should reduce their carbon output first. Ron DeSantis, who rejected the form of the question, has called climate change “left-wing stuff,” and blames “wokeness” rather than escalating climate claims for the disappearance of property insurers in Florida.

Sebastian, our Aussiedoodle puppy, arrives this week. He’s named after St. Sebastian, the unofficial patron saint, or icon, of gay men. Perpetua and Felicity are the unofficial patron saints of lesbians.

Congregation Etz Chaim (CEC) is one of South Florida’s LGBTQ success stories. On the surface it does not seem that way: In its 49-year history, CEC has had more ups and downs than a roller coaster.