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The mitzvah squad As the daughter of a rabbi in Auburn, Maine, I participated in a family and community tradition up until seven years ago, when my father passed away. On Christmas Eve, the Auburn police operated on a skeleton crew. Not only were the police officers on duty away from their families, but the station was a lonely place. My father, Rabbi Norman Geller, organized a program within the Jewish community where we would ride with the police officers on Christmas Eve and bring food and baked goods to the station. I rode with a police officer, keeping him company until the wee hours of the morning. This tradition became such an important part of my life that throughout my college years, single life, and even after marriage I would go back to Auburn on Christmas Eve to ride with the police. I will never forget how grateful these police officers were for our presence. The lessons I learned regarding the true spirit of the holiday season, as well as an appreciation for the people who protect us, will stay with me forever. DR. RACHEL GELLER-KAPLAN Newton

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