As the boy who cried wolf found it, it is only real wolves who profit by false and hysterical accusations. Unfortunately, there are some in the Orthodox community who feel that baseless charges of anti – Semitism are superior to reasoned debate in an exchange with our fellow citizens. The radical change in the nature of life in Ramapo is viewed with sadness and dismay by many who lived here over the years, Jews and non Jews, Orthodox and non – Orthodox. Any attempt to portray all opposition to the urbanization of our lives as rooted in hatred toward Jews says far more about the morality of those who adopt it, than about the desire of their opponents for the tranquility and mannered civility of Ramapo as it once was. As an Orthodox, in fact I’d probably be labeled by many as ultra – Orthodox, I am aghast over the vile tactics of some and, offer on behalf of many, my apologies to those in the Preserve Our Ramapo camp. The issues are vital and merit civil debate -- not insane rhetoric about Nazis!

Furthermore, the entire debate might serve notice upon many in our community that it is precisely the neglect of many of the Torah’s basic demands for honesty, manners, civic responsibility and a host of related items that might make some of us less than desirable neighbors.

But that might require introspection. Delusional accusations cater far better to selfish interests and moral smugness.

It is well to remember that the ways of Torah are of both sweetness and peace. It is for the articulation and incarnation of these norms that we are created.

Sincerely,
Rivky Engle
Monsey, New York