Notes of Spiritual Nourishment

From Our Clergy... NOTES OF SPIRITUAL NOURISHMENT

Who could have imagined last year at this time where we would be this year? And yet, here we are thrust into a world and a life that has demanded adapting, adjusting, and too much time spent without the physical presence of many cherished friends and family in our lives. How have we coped with this different, and for many, difficult existence? I think about the image the Psalmists created of when we walk through deepest darkness. They said, “I do not fear, for You are with me.” For them, that may have meant God. Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, of blessed memory, taught that the phrase “you are with me” can also mean one another. Though we may be separated by our physical presence, the sight of so many faces on Zoom studying, laughing, praying, and conversing together has brought me nourishment, sustenance and support. I hope these experiences have helped you as well.

In the book of Jeremiah, the prophet likens the people of Israel to the olive tree - "God called your name a green olive tree, attractive and with impressive fruit." (Jer. 11:16) Why the olive? The tree is quite beautiful, the fruits (with lots of salt and time) are delicious - but is that the true essence of our people? The rabbis teach that just as olives are beaten down from the tree, placed in the mill, pressed by heavy stones before finally producing oil, so too Israel: human life is challenging, heavy, even dangerous - but through experience we get to what is truly valuable. When we as Jews experience hardship, our traditions, community and incredible hope helps us grow resilient, to persevere, and thrive. The miracle of Hanukkah this year is not that the oil long ago lasted for 8 days - but rather, that we are each fine oil, shining brightly for 8 months (and counting) - growing stronger and more resilient day by day.

My hope is that we all dedicate some energy this winter towards celebrating the small victories of life. Whatever small thing feels like a disproportionate struggle, rejoice in the triumph of completing that task! Mitzvah goreret mitzvah, one good act will bring about another. The same can be said for positive energy and forward momentum. Remember, after December 21, we climb back up towards spring. One day and one step at a time. When Adam and Eve encountered their first sunset outside of the garden, they were terrified. They had never experienced darkness before. To address this liminal moment in their lives - the ancient rabbis write into their hands the ritual of Havdalah and once they are holding a flame, they recite: Thank you, O Source of Light for this

"When this is over, may we never again take for granted: a handshake with a stranger full shelves at the store conversations with neighbors a crowded theater friday night out a routine checkup the school rush each morning coffee with a friend the stadium roaring each deep breath a boring tuesday life itself. When this ends may we find that we have become more like the people we wanted to be we were called to be we hoped to be and may we stay that way -- better out at asherr@tisrael.org. We are here for you! Please

because of the worst."

- "When This Is Over" by Laura Kelly Fanucci

sacred light! In another reading of the story, the rabbis put into Adam’s hands two flint stones - such that with Eve’s help, they learn how to spark fire themselves. And so they faced the darkness with agency and purpose. But the rabbis take it a step further; they offer that if you are without a candle or a match, lacking the right materials to spark light, then you can bless the bright glow of the stars. And if you can’t see the stars because they are eclipsed by more darkness or by your struggle to see - then, then you can bless even the rocks on the ground. And why? Because they wanted us to know that even if we don’t have everything we want or need right now - we can still bless whatever it is we have. These are hard, painful, lonely, dark times, but the blueprint of our tradition since the dawn of time offers us a gift. Whether a cup of coffee, an evening walk, a playlist, poem, or a moment of breath, whether Shabbat candles or the Havdalah spice: rediscover an item, a person, an idea, a ritual - hourly, daily, weekly or monthly. Place it in your own hands, offer thanks, and create your own sparks.

YOU ARE NOT ALONE!

Being in quarantine can be isolating, frightening, and lonely. If you or anyone you know are sick with COVID-19, please let Amy Sherr know so we can reach for each other

let us know if you need immediate assistance.