Dad, as a guest blogger, is becoming a Tradition. Without further ado, here is Tradition, written by My Dad- Monroe Schlanger.
Fiddler on the Roof
Many years ago, during the Fiddler on the Roof rehearsal, the team felt something was missing from the show. They believed it needed a setup. What is the show about? What are we trying to say? They decided it was the Tradition of the Jewish families in Russia.
Tradition 🎼🎵🎶
That night, they wrote the new opening number, Tradition.
Traditional Women’s Roles
Growing up, my Temple and family had their own Traditions, and the women’s place and role were carefully outlined. The problem was that you needed a microscope to find it!
One year, during a temple service, a woman was called up to the Bema—the podium at the front of the temple—after being called. I watched, curious about her role. She wore a Tallit, a prayer shawl typically worn by men, and began reading from the Torah scrolls. When she finished, the congregation sat in stunned silence, followed by a quiet ripple of approval—the beginning of a new tradition. Until that moment, only men had been called to the Bema. For a woman to receive this honor was rare—almost unheard of.
Dad’s Mother – Grandma Sadie
My mother, a traditional Jewish wife and mother, played a traditional role in our family. It was caring for the house and the children; my father made all the big decisions. As Dad got older, it was hard for him to concentrate, so Mom took over. She called me and asked what should I do?
Now, Who’s the Boss?
Eventually, our roles changed and I would call her and ask what should we do. She read the small print on insurance renewals and asked questions. I replied that I didn’t know the answers. Her response was, “Well, you should! “ The Women in our family, given the chance, became movers and shakers.
Women
My late wife, Dianne, loved the stock market and did pretty well. My sister Carol was one of the most brilliant people I’ve ever met. She could solve any problem. Her daughter, Dr Lisa, is a chip off the block. My daughter-in-law, Cathy, is an artist and writer. It continues into the next generation with my mother’s great-granddaughter, Dr Carly. And it extends to the women who married into our family, with our daughter-in-law, Joyce, a respected teacher. Those of you who read my daughter Vickie blog need no other words.
Today Would Have Been Mom’s 90th Birthday
Tradition
In Fiddler, they described the Traditions of Jewish families in Russia. We each have our traditions and create new ones as we grow. What are your favorite traditions?
Oh, by the way, if you are interested in reading Monroe’s daughter’s memoir, click here 😉
Anna 
Barbara Mower 
carolrom4 
Anonymous 
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