Why is this week different than all other weeks of my life?
TRUST
On all other weeks of my life, I had a plan. I made goals and accomplished them. I was convinced I had life all (or mostly) figured out.
But this week, I was humbled to realize I know so little. I'm slowly coming to terms with the reality that my only plan is G-d's plan. And I know it will be good in the end.If it's not good yet, it's not the end. (Oh, and thank you, dear G-d, for taking the burden off my shoulders. It's quite liberating just letting go).
Friends: PRAY each day. Say the Modeh Ani, say the Shema. Allow yourself to internalize Hashem's presence in your life.
SHABBAT
On all other Shabbat's of my life, much of the Jewish activity centered around the shul; Jews relied on the rabbi, cantor, and gabbai to keep the Jewish thing going.
But on this Shabbat, our homes are the Shul. We are all the rabbi and the cantor. We will each step up to the plate, and we won't disappoint!
Friends: UNPLUG from the relentless news cycle this Shabbat. Sundown Friday to nightfall Saturday. Light candles, make Kiddush, study the Parshah. Do it all the way!
HABITS
On all other weeks of my life, I had daily routines and habits, some good some not so good. It's been quite challenging breaking the bad habits.
But this week, as the rug was pulled from under my feet, I was forced to kick every habit and routine. I now realize the amazing opportunity to reconstruct my daily routine to reflect my truest priorities.
Friends: INCLUDE Torah in your daily routine - join me online each morning next week for 15 minutes, as we explore one question/topic a day from The Jewish Course of Why. See a sample of questions and topics here: https://forms.gle/KBhyvPZATgNoYS2s9. Details to follow next week.
GOODNESS
On all other weeks of my life, I've been inspired by isolated examples of kindness shown by some people.
But this week, I was moved by witnessing the never-ending gush and outpouring of selfless, remarkable, almost superhuman kindness shown by people all over the world. Medical personnel putting themselves in the line of danger to fight this pandemic, teachers stretching themselves to be there for students, parents giving their all to their kids, and strangers volunteering to bring food and other supplies to neighbors. Our father in heaven must be kvelling with nachas!
Friends: SIGN UP to volunteer. Your help will be needed by others in the community who are not able to venture out to do basic errands. Fill out this form https://forms.gle/6wtinwNSUi3M9cSPA