I read with great interest Jonathan Mark’s article (“A Tahara For The Grateful Dead,” April 20). In July 1981, while I was enrolled at Chiropractic College in Kansas City, I was called upon to participate in the tahara of the Jewish male victims of the tragic Hyatt Regency Skywalk collapse. Upon moving back east I joined the communal Chevra Kadisha of the Vaad Of Flatbush and continue to participate today with the Young Israel of Woodmere.
The lessons of dignity not only pertain to the tahara room but to life as well. When one can perform this service, the families can’t express their own gratitude without bringing a tear. I have learned over the last 35 years to honor both the living and the dead and to try and be there for people during their time of need without looking to make a buck or even get a pat on the back. We should all be able use our gifts in the service of God and the community.
Woodmere , L.I.
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