Foundation of Gratitude, 34 Days Omer 5782

Today is thirty-four days, which is four weeks and six days of the Omer in the year 5782. יסוד שבהוד, Yesod ShebeHod, Foundation of Gratitude. Is there a place where you feel instantly at peace? What nourishes your soul?

Sinking back into the joy of reading

I have one more paper to write and then I am done with my rabbinical school assignments. There are no more books I am required to read. In ten short days, I will be ordained.

Now I get to sink back into the joy of reading. My mind cannot settle on one book at a time. There are too many gems calling to me. I am so grateful for the ability to read.

Understanding Life Through Fiction

As a child, I was a voracious reader. I felt inferior because there are many classic works I've never read. Though I did read the entire Sweet Valley High collection and was thoroughly bored with its predictable structure by eighth grade. There were other series I read --- some of which were entirely inappropriate for an elementary-school aged kid. I marvel at how innocent my kids are in comparison. It might be difficult for me to handle the things they learn on the internet, but it is better than the aspiring 20+ year-old I became as a small child religiously watching soap operas.

Human Relationships Ground Me

My children, my partner, my family, my colleagues, my communities: these human interactions ground me and fill me with deep gratitude.

I've been physically separated from some of the people that mean the most to me for decades at this point. Going to school outside of Boston, having family scattered across the country -- my ties have been virtual long before the pandemic.

I am so grateful for all who are on this journey with me.

What grounds you in gratitude?