1982-1983 Rothberg Yearbook

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He suddenly noticed that outside it was brighter than he had ever experienced the daytime before.
In New York the colors always seemed so dull and dingy while here in Jerusalem - no, all o f Israel the
buildings shone brightly in the reflection o f the sun’s rays and there was no feeling o f crampedness or
decay. Which was strange, being that the ruins o f New York were but mere infants in comparison to the
ancient edifices of Jerusalem and elsewhere.
He could have waxed philosophical or theological on the subject —that is: the light o f the Almighty
shone brighter here than anywhere else, or finally the ingathering of exiles brought light to the dark and
perilous dispersion. No, he simply recalled the law concerning the building o f Jerusalem architecture, how
they could only be made o f Jerusalem stone, so white and reflective o f light. Had these same structures
been carved out o f the red, dull brick o f New York, why the bright sun would really be dull after all,
wouldn’t it?
There must be some reason for this special feeling o f mine. He finally identified the problem. For
those more sure in belief, whether it be Mount Sinai, Herzl or Marx, the answers come easier. As for me,
he said to himself, the solution is more obscure.
Andy Semble
Boston University
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