Thirty-six days of the Omer 5778

Today is thirty-six days, which is five weeks and one day of the Omer. חסד שביסוד, Chesed ShebeYesed, Grace / Love in Bonding.

Today I had the honor of experiencing Shabbat services led by (soon to be) Rabbi Aviva Shira Funke. Her leadership, presence, and knowledge are gifts to all who know her. I look forward to learning more as she continues to expand people’s access to halachically-rooted, soul-nourishing, life-altering prayer.

I also had the honor of seeing my extended family and marvel at the quicker than expected recovery of my cousin from an almost fatal bicycle / car crash. Jason Brooks has been an inspiration of open-hearted living since we were kids and I’m so grateful we are able to continue this journey together.

In different ways, Aviva and Jason have taught me to embrace full-throated love. They have modeled staying rooted to what you hold most dear: evolving tradition, family, and love. May we all take the time to stop and appreciate the gifts of those around us. May we remember that grace is forever available to guide us towards the person we want to be. And may we commit to bonding our actions with our ideals; our thoughts and feelings with our highest selves.