Harmonious Bonding: 38 Days of Omer 5783
Today is thirty-eight days, which is five weeks and three days of the Omer in the year 5783. תִּפְאֶרֶת שביסוד, Tiferet ShebeYesod, Harmonious Bonding. When we find our people, life is so much easier. A year ago, I could not imagine what my life would be. Now, as I prepare for my formal installation as rabbi of Temple Israel of Alameda, I honestly believe I have sunk into the harmonious bonding my soul has been searching 45 years to find. I pray you have that type of community for yourself.
Commit to Yourself by Reaching Out
It has always been easy to retreat.
Making friends as an adult is hard.
Perhaps you’ve gotten used to relaxing without other people.
Maybe your focus in on your kids’ social lives.
We need each other.
Try a Communal Activity
Even if it’s something you never thought you’d do.
Maybe an art class.
Or a walking club.
Or even a spiritual community.
Opening ourselves up to bonding with other people deepens our sense of self.
The Beauty of Nurturing Community
I’ve given up the expectation that people will join me in pursuing Jewish ethical mysticism.
My goal is to create a welcoming Jewish space where everyone has room.
I know people long for casual connections.
I know how important community is.
Build Depth into Your Family
The primary reason I encourage all families to join a spiritual community is simple.
Ideally, it is a space to explore the deepest questions of existence.
It’s a place to be honored for the beauty of your unique soul.
A home where how much you make, or who you are outside,
never matters.
Children thrive on routine.
And the routine of going to a spiritual community holds space for all of you.
Especially the child within.
Image by NoName_13 from Pixabay.