Since I've had Jewish friends since I was a young boy, I've had my experiences in Jewish culture and tradition.
My Jewish friends have always been welcoming.
I've attended Bar Mitzvahs and a Bat Mitzah.
I've been to synagogues.
Most of my experiences with Shabbos has been with my secular or traditional Jewish friends.
This last night, I had the honor to be invited to Shabbos by a practicing Jewish friend.
I was the one gentile seated at a table among my Jewish brothers and sisters.
I was seated to the right side of my host.
Before we ate, we gave the usual blessings.
Everybody else spoke Hebrew -- I actually know more phrases in Russian than I do Hebrew, and that's not saying much.
Still, I was asked to participate in the blessing, and I read, in English, one of the most famous passages in the Bible for the group.
"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever."
Reading those words to my Jewish brothers and sisters, while the traditions of Shabbos were being practiced, with the added gravity of the last month, hit me hard.
I don't know precisely what it was.
It might have been that moment when the cup literally flowed over with wine as I read the words of the "cup runneth over."
Regardless, I was aware that I was among a vibrant, and beautiful people.
Not one of them showed hate in their hearts.
In my secular moments, I will say that I'm lucky to have so many Jewish friends.
In my pious moments, I will say that I'm blessed to have so many Jewish friends.
My cup does runneth over.