Positive thoughts as the seasons change

Milnerton members with the blankets they knitted to donate

A Time of Connection and Activity

The past month has been exceptionally vibrant across all our branches, offering members a variety of ways to connect and engage. We’ve enjoyed outings to beautiful Cape Town landmarks such as Vergelegen, Kirstenbosch, Hout Bay and Muizenberg. Our guest speakers transported us across the globe – from Lynne Stacey’s tale of walking with gorillas to Angela Rothbart’s insights on her latest novel, Space Between the Stars.

Our outreach efforts continued with Milnerton members donating hand-knitted blankets to their local Cheshire Home, while Sea Point members created cheerful cushions for the UJW Kensington Crèche.

Our annual three-night retreat at Goudini in late March was a great success. Blessed with perfect weather, the group enjoyed swimming, walking, card games, and lively conversation. Highlights included a glass-blowing demo by the talented David Reade, a Bingo night, and our much-loved quiz crafted by David Sher. A delicious lunch at Opstal Farm and a festive braai hosted by the Worcester Lions Club capped off a memorable experience. We made our way back to Cape Town after a final swim.

Sea Point members also spent a meaningful morning with Grade 12 Herzlia learners as part of the EOLI initiative for matrics to gain a better understanding of our communal organisations. They experienced a hands-on introduction to the work we do, and our hope is that some students will be inspired to explore service opportunities beyond school.

We’re currently partnering with UCT’s Social Work Department, hosting second-year students who are learning to build relationships with clients under the guidance of our social workers. Both students and members benefit from this mutually enriching experience.

Building Resilience Through Positive Thinking

The trauma experienced globally since October 7th weighs heavily on us all. We all pray for the safe return of the hostages. The uncertainty is difficult, but our attitudes can help us navigate daily life with strength
and hope.

Consider these thoughts:

Life reflects the attitude you bring to it.

Attitude is a choice – it is not dictated by circumstances or others. If you are negative, it is because you have decided to be negative.

Sometimes, you must act positively before you feel positive.

Actions and feelings are closely linked – treat others with importance and see the change it brings.

Assumptions shape attitudes; shift them to see differently.

Believe in more reasons to succeed than
to fail.

Approach problems with the mindset that you can solve them.

Your thoughts shape your reality – take charge of them.

Start each day by choosing your attitude.

It’s not what happens to us, but how we respond, that defines our experience.

We hope your Pesach Seders were meaningful and filled with hope. May our prayers continue to support the freedom and safety of all hostages. Wishing you a peaceful and uplifting month ahead.  ●

Social and Personal

We congratulate our members who have had joyous occasions during the last month.

Bat Mitzvah: Maxine and Victor Boyd – Granddaughter in London, Brian and Gail Kirsch – Granddaughters

Special Birthday: Keile Gross – 100th birthday

Marriage: Thelma Gamsu – Grandson, Lilian Sheldon – Grandson

Get Well wishes: Stella Kope, Marcia Raymond, Lynne Ford

Death: Wishing Long Life and wishes of strength to:

Leina Sank – Sister Sayde

Veronica Belling – Sister Thalia

Linda Stein – Husband David.

Wishes of Long Life to the Berkowitz Family on the untimely passing of their beloved son and brother, Steven. Our thoughts are with them all.


Cape Jewish Seniors Association
Director: Diana Sochen, 021 434 9691, director@cjsa.org.za
Admin: Amanda, 021 434 9691, admin@cjsa.org.za
CJSA on Facebook

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