Few stories move me as powerfully as Victor Hugo’s Les Misérables. Set in the midst of a revolution in France, it’s a deeply moving portrait of individuals from various walks of life wrestling with grace, meaning, redemption, love and loss.

Last month while watching this play with my wife, it became clear to me that the main character from Les Misérables illuminates not only how we should live as individuals, but also how we must move forward as a nation. And the character that modeled this example to me might not be who you expect. Let me explain.

In our polarized world, Rabbi Susan Talve stands as a beacon of hope, dedicating her life to building relationships across divides. As the founding rabbi of Central Reform Congregation, Susan has inspired a movement of community and connection, reminding us of the beautiful interconnectedness of humanity.

Today, Susan shares how an archeological dig in Israel opened her heart and mind to a life of spiritual leadership, how she channels the grief of losing her daughter Adina into creating positive change and her mission of "Tikkun Olam" – repairing the world.

My friends, this conversation is a testament to the power of faith, humility and the truth that listening, understanding and building bridges have the power to heal the world.

Hollywood has a reputation of attracting individuals capable of portraying one version of themselves in front of a camera … and a very different version when no one is watching.

Perhaps that’s why when people learn a movie was made about my life, and they hear about the actors who participated in the film, one of the most frequently asked questions is, “So, what are they really like?” After spending months with some well-known actors, producers, directors and leaders in the industry, my answer typically surprises them. Let me explain.