I was raised in the orbit of Michael J. Fox. His presence graced our screens, whether in the iconic role of Alex Keaton in “Family Ties” or the time-traveling Marty McFly in “Back to the Future.” To me, he embodied the essence of a childhood hero.
Just a few days ago, I watched the documentary “Still.” The movie weaves together the tale of Fox’s illustrious career and his odyssey living with Parkinson’s Disease—a malady that hits close to home due to its impact on my own family.
In the realm of cinema, Michael J. Fox radiated youthful charm and an ineffable charisma, making his diagnosis with Parkinson’s Disease all the more earth-shattering to the world. Yet, rather than retreating from the limelight, Fox chose the path of using his celebrity status to elevate awareness about Parkinson’s and fervently advocate for groundbreaking research. “Still” encapsulates his resolve to continue embracing life’s vibrant tapestry, despite the formidable challenges that life threw his way.
Tomorrow evening, as we embark on the celebration of Sukkot, we immerse ourselves in themes of impermanence and humility. Sukkot beckons us to erect the symbolic sukkah—a fragile, transient booth where we congregate to dine and sometimes rest for a span of seven days. The festival commemorates the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness, emphasizing their reliance on divine protection. Sukkot powerfully underscores the fragility of our existence, urging us outdoors as the weather turns cooler, compelling us to confront our vulnerability head-on.
As I delved into the documentary “Still,” I was moved by Michael J. Fox’s exceptional capacity to embrace vulnerability. Much like the sukkah symbolizes the frailty of our lives, Fox’s extraordinary journey with Parkinson’s Disease underscores the significance of acknowledging and embracing our own vulnerabilities.
One particularly powerful scene from the documentary: Fox, standing on stage, his body quivering under the weight of the disease, addresses a sea of supporters and fellow advocates. His voice may tremble, but his message resonates with strength. He speaks not merely about Parkinson’s, but about the universal human experience—the trials, the setbacks, and the profound splendor of life itself. It’s a moment that encapsulates his courage and resilience in the face of insurmountable adversity.
As we assemble within our symbolic sukkahs during Sukkot, we ought to contemplate the profound lessons to be gleaned from Michael J. Fox’s extraordinary journey.
Embracing vulnerability is not synonymous with weakness; rather, it signifies our recognition of our shared humanity. It is an acknowledgment that life is an unpredictable voyage, and it is precisely within our moments of vulnerability that we often unearth our most formidable strength.
Wishing you all a Chag Sukkot Sameach.
