Kvetching

Earlier this week I snapped at one of the participants who was invited to a local Jewish singles event. I snapped because a participant complained about the event. It wasn’t a constructive criticism, or a valid suggestion. It was an old and plain kvetching that is almost always a given constant at most Jewish events. Someone has to find something wrong with the event, and exert enough energy to kvetch.

Basically this is how it went. A participant complained about one of the event’s dynamic, and everyone jumped to smooth it over, and pacify the kvetcher. Then I came along with my snap. I take full ownership of my feedback, and I will call it for what it was. My feedback was a snap at the participant with an advice either stop complaining and attempt to make the best out of the event, or don’t sign up for it.

Dear kvetchers, allow me to be honest and straight forward with you because I am at a point where I am done with trying to diplomatically address or listen to your annoying complains. The truth is, your kvetching is annoying to those of us who take proactive attempts to be social for ourselves and for our community. Your kvetching is a waste of energy that doesn’t produce any positive changes other than causing some of us (in this case me) to roll eyes and think “Oh, and here we go again.”

To host an event is a lot of work and it costs serious money. Most of the events are driven by few dedicated folks who are willing to organize these events for you, fund them (fund raising ain’t easy, here is a hint for you, do donate money to your local Jewish charities, organizations, shuls, and youth organizations) figure out the details and see them through. All these efforts take time, money and a lot of patience. To host an event isn’t easy. And most of the times, you, dear kvetchers, are rarely there to contribute in a meaningful way, be that your time, your money, or your support.

Kvetchers, try being thoughtful and helpful the next you are invited to an event. Graciously accept the invite, show up, and if you see there is room for improvement, a change for a better, reach out to the organizers with practical and meaningful suggestions. Better yet, become involved! Donate money, help to plan, ask how you can help, be there, get involved in your own Jewish community and be useful instead of meaningless kvetching.

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