When the Jewish people left Egypt, they sang a song of thanks - Dayenu - "it is enough for us". We are told that at every step of the 40 years that followed, with every miracle that preserved our people, we continually said dayenu. And yet, there was always one more miracle, one more stroke of good luck. Why? If it truly was enough for us, why were we continually given more?  Why did we say "that's enough" each time a burden was lifted if there were still burdens to be borne?

It is good to be thankful for everything we are given. But it is also good to recognize that it is not enough for only our own chains to be broken, for only ourselves to be free.   There is still so much to do in our work of tikkun olam, repairing the world.

When governments end the escalating production of devastating weapons, secure in the knowledge that they will not be necessary, Dayenu.

When all women and men are allowed to make their own decisions on matters regarding their own bodies and personal relationships without discrimination or legal consequences, Dayenu.

When children grow up in freedom, without hunger, and with the love and support they need to realize their full potential, Dayenu.

When our beautiful world is protected for the benefit and enjoyment of all and given priority over development for the sake of profit, Dayenu.

When people of all ages, sexes, races, religions, sexual orientations, cultures and nations respect and appreciate one another, Dayenu.

When each person can say, "This year, I worked as hard as I could toward improving the world so that all people can experience the joy and freedom I feel sitting here tonight at the seder table," Dayenu 

It is enough for us. And there is still work to do.


haggadah Section: -- Cup #2 & Dayenu