Getting to the Starting Line
Teshuvah reminds us that we are, in fact, enough. Even in the moment when it feels furthest away, all we have to do is take the first step.
How Do We Talk about Hagar in Multifaith Settings?
Although it is a challenging story, I think we lose an important opportunity by glossing over Hagar in the Jewish tradition.
9/11/26 and Rosh Hashanah: Days To Remember
Clal Reflects on Rosh Hashanah, the High Holidays, and the 25th Anniversary of September 11, 2001.
Swimming Under an Apocalyptic Sun
Apocalyptic times are scary, but as my movie and poetry teachers remind me, they also reveal our most intrinsic selves, and therefore what is most important to us.
Returning to Myself
Still, I permitted my rational self to overrule my fear of failure as I recalled the wise advice of Eleanor Roosevelt: “We must do the things we think we cannot do.”
Learning to Apologize
I realized that apologizing was for adults, too, not just children who got in trouble.
If Time Could Talk
The human capacity to notice, reflect, and give language to the continuous cycle of creation and disintegration is unique among Earth creatures.
Spiritual Security Planning for the High Holy Days
If we want people to be able to settle into a position of openness to the messages of the Days of Awe, we need to first help them feel safe—physically as well as spiritually.
Learning to Pray on the back of a Jet Ski
Suddenly my mind formed a prayer. “May my oneness connect with the oneness of the dolphins.” More flowed forth: “May my echad connect to my son’s joy of speed and jet power.”
Principles vs Rules
Principles are different from rules. Both are critically important to living a good life, but that may be where the similarity ends.