Andrew Sawyers, B-Div TfL rep based at Hammersmith, recently attended the British Transport Police Jewish Police Association’s (JPA) celebration of Purim. While liaising with other JPA members, Andy found out why this occasion is celebrated and its meaning. Thank you to Dan Levy, the head of the BTP JPA, for the invitation.
Purim (פּוּרִים) is a Jewish holiday that commemorates the saving of the Jewish people from annihilation at the hands of Haman, an official of the Achaemenid Empire, as recounted in the Book of Esther. It is a time of feasting, gladness, sharing portions, and giving gifts to people experiencing poverty, as described in the Scroll of Esther.
Purim is celebrated annually on the 14th day of the Hebrew month of Adar, and in Hebrew leap years, it is celebrated in Adar II, which occurs seven times in every 19 years. The day follows the victory of the Jews over their enemies on the 13th of Adar, a date now observed in most years with the fast of Esther.
As beautifully retold by the attending Rabbi, Purim teaches us to be grateful for what we have in the moment and to celebrate life as we experience it now, rather than being preoccupied with the future and what we don’t have. These wise words resonated deeply with me.
The celebration provided an excellent opportunity to reconnect with Dan Levy from the BTP’s Force Resource Planning Unit (FRPU), who is also head of the BTP Jewish Association, and friends old and new. I took the time to speak with many community leaders and representatives, explaining the role of the Federation, and listening to their thoughts on our railway community, their fears, hopes, and aspirations for a police force they admire and respect.
I was in awe of how much they appreciated what we do and was cheered by their encouragement and enthusiasm for all of you who police the railway day in and day out, come rain or shine, without fear or favour.
Naturally, it was a great opportunity to hear the community voice their concerns. For those who police areas frequently used by the Jewish community, I encourage you to meet, strike up conversations and maintain ongoing dialogue with them. Be highly visible on the network, as your presence reassures them, and they are truly grateful for you being there as ‘Guardians of the Railway’.
I felt very lucky to be included and warmly welcomed at this special occasion. It reminded me to celebrate what I have and what I have achieved, and I encourage you to do the same and be proud of what you do.
Special thanks to Dan Levy for arranging this event. As always, I am proud to represent on behalf of Area Secretary, Michael Natavio.
Andrew Sawyers, BTP Federation