08/19/2026
Sinai resident Judith Levy writes for the Florida Jewish Journal / South Florida Sun Sentinel: "Kindness never goes out of style | Commentary"
"So many things are different from when I was growing up. Manners, wardrobe, hairstyles and expectations have changed radically. I remember when you wouldn’t call adults by their first name. Now that’s acceptable. I remember when women wore dresses and pants were not the fashion. I don’t have a dress in my entire current wardrobe.
When I had a dollar or two, I’d take myself to the mall and shop. Now I shop online, buying items I really don’t need because the ads are so tempting. Amazon has more of my money than I’d like to admit.
Children no longer play in the streets because it’s considered unsafe and may very well be. Expensive nursery schools are where kids are expected to learn and make friends. We used to play outside, games like potsie, stick ball, jumping jacks and kick the can. All those games are a long-lost memory.
I recall when one was expected to remember and send a birthday card. Greeting card companies must be going crazy, as so many people have chosen to email their good wishes on your special day. Even wedding invitations are now being sent by computer. If you send a gift to the newlyweds, you can expect to wait months for a thank-you note, if you get one at all, and most will come electronically.
I used to like going to the library and taking out one or two books. Today, if people want a book, they don’t go to the library — they have a Kindle or listen to audiobooks, which they can order online. Or they have passed up books altogether and watch television instead.
There was a time when a hostess would cook a meal and invite friends for dinner at their home. Sharing a meal at a friend’s home was warm and cozy, but now couples meet at a designated restaurant and what they share is the bill. A welcoming home has turned out to be the local eatery.
I miss the warm ways of yesterday. Looking back may be a sad endeavor, so just take the time to reminisce and then get on with what today has to offer. All the new inventions and the medical discoveries that save lives and let us live longer are the gift of the future. Just be grateful for today despite all the changes you miss.
The only thing that hasn’t gone out of style is doing a mitzvah. Kindness is always in style. With the Jewish New Year approaching, the books are open and there’s still time to be written in for a good new year (5787). So reach out and offer a helping hand. I wish you a happy and healthy new year."
Columnist Judith Levy talks about all the things that have gone out of style but reminds readers that doing a mitzvah will always be on trend.
