As I write these words, the election is a scant week away. I’ve heard from many of you that it’s hard to think about much else right now. This election feels momentous and maybe even frightening in a way we’ve never experienced before.
I love Yom Kippur. I know that probably sounds weird to most folks, but it’s true. I love it because the day feels meaningful from start to finish. It’s a whole day of introspection and togetherness and song, and these are a few of my favorite things.
The guest post is the D’var Torah that CBI member & cantorial soloist Ziva Larson offered at Erev Rosh Hashanah Evening Service on Wednesday, October 2, 2024.
“…Our year’s most sacred season is almost upon us! I’m writing to share a bit about what to expect at this year’s high holidays. As always, some things will be timeless and familiar, while others will be new.
This is part one of a two-part series on this year’s Days of Awe; the second part will appear in the October newsletter…”
One of my favorite things that I’m doing right now is co-teaching a class called “Repentance and Repair” with Rabbi David Markus. As some of you know, we started off by assigning a little bit of spiritual homework.
“…Pursue justice by approaching the world with the integrity of a juror.
Guard our gates, mindful of what we’re taking in and what we’re putting into the world.
And pour out our hearts – not to the vast indifferent universe, but to an imagined beloved Friend….”
I’m always reluctant to face the reality that summer will eventually end. I love the slower pace of a season without the pressures of school days. I love the vibrant green of our hills at this time of year. I love the profusion of produce (yes, even the excess of zucchini). I love the long days and warm evening light. If I could freeze time right here and now, I might be tempted to do it! Maybe fortunately, that power hasn’t been offered to me, so days keep ticking by at their usual pace.
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