Memories of Oliver: Remembering Dad

Happy New Year and apologies on this delayed inaugural newsletter of 2026! Yet, interestingly, this delay is timely for it was around this time four years ago that my father sadly passed away (on January 17th, 2022 according to the Gregorian calendar).

According to the Jewish calendar (which is based on the lunar cycle), the day of his passing was on the 15th of the month of Shevat, the anniversary of which is today. In the Jewish world, the anniversary of a person’s passing is very significant. Thus, you can understand why I referred to the newsletter’s delay as timely!

Furthermore, today marks the Jewish New Year for Trees (called Tu B’Shevat) which celebrates the start of spring's fruit cycle in the Land of Israel. On a spiritual and more personalized level, on this day we should reflect on the deeper meaning of Deuteronomy 20:19 which states that: “man is a tree of the field”. There is much to unpack here, and rather than me writing you a lengthy discourse on this topic, here is a beautiful 15-minute teaching by Rabbi Simon Jacobson titled “The Roots of Renewal” about the significance of a tree’s roots and how they relate to us. I encourage you to listen.

It is on this personal level that I reflect on my “roots” (the foundations of my life) that were in large part influenced by my father (and mother), particularly in the pursuit of knowledge of and relationship with G-d. As for my "branches" representing my actions and deeds in this world, I like to believe they are blossoming and bringing forth fruit. May my roots be strengthened and my branches be fruitful in abundance each and every day.

Thus, today is a notable day of remembrance and reflection for my beloved father’s memory. Might I add that it was with the sole intent purpose of uplifting his memory that we launched the Tent of Oliver Foundation.

May Dad’s memory be a blessing.