I’m doing something a little self-conscious tonight. First, I’m taking this opportunity to thank all my readers for reading this blog, submitting comments and participating in the discussion, subscribing and even making donations to support my work. This isn’t a big, popular blog like other political blogs whose names come tripping off the tongue. But I’m proud to say that site traffic here averages about 700 unique visitors a day. 255,000 have visited in the past year. Those are 50%+ increases from the prior year.
I have maintained a Paypal Donate button on this site for several years. No one has ever donated. Until a few weeks ago, when a subscriber with whom I don’t remember having much, if any contact, sent a $50 donation out of the blue. Needless to say, I was speechless and gratified. Today, another subscriber (but this one a person I have known since I was in high school) sent in another $100 donation. More jaw-dropping speechlessness–and deep gratitude.
While I write this blog out of love for Israel, Judaism, humanity and peace, it doesn’t support me–not by a long shot (in fact, my wife does that by graciously holding down a job while I help raise our children). I don’t expect that it will. But it’s nice when people understand what you do and honor it so much that they’re willing to tell you so with a contribution.
That’s why I’d like to ask you, my readers, to consider how much the message of peace is worth. We’re entering a holiday season in which many of us determine what causes we want to support with charitable gifts. I hope you’ll consider supporting the work of Tikun Olam. Gifts of any amount are gratefully accepted. And please do not feel that if you cannot, or choose not to support me that you are any less welcome to these pages.
Thanks so much, Jeanne. You contributed to my own political education as my high school social studies teacher. Those were heady days in the late 1960s. I’m glad we could share them together. Your support & generosity are much appreciated.
I have been interested in foreign affairs since high school (the fifties). I greatly appreciate your blog as it illuminates the Middle East in a way I never imagined. I spend alot of time at Barnes and Nobles perusing the foreign policy material, but your knowledge of Israel and Israeli material informs us in ways that few Americans have access to. Thank you for sharing your many years of education in Judaic Studies in both Israel and the US. Yes, I will donate to this brilliant blog and will continue through the years. Jeanne Capozzoli