The second parasha of Torah weaves stories that are familiar the world over, because they are central narratives to our shared human experience. We sin, we survive, we are fractured and dipersed by cultural distinctions, yet our human capacity for true purpose and faith remains. G-d understands our inherent weakness and loves us not just in spite of it, but in some ways because of it. After all, as Noah finds out, human weakness and sin can be the vital impetus that helps us to drive forward towards days of new hope and rainbows. And with the arrival of Abraham into Torah, hope for the future is indeed about to blossom. Grace is out there, and on offer for all of us. It's just about making the right kinds of choices.