A Community of Parents

Wednesday, August 29, 2007

Reflections of the Season

A new school year ? Where did the Summer go ?

With September upon us, it must mean that the High Holy Days are just around the corner.

Another year has come and gone.

Now like some bird that is programmed to start a long migratory journey, it seesm I too have been programmed to "kick it up a notch" when the holidays arrive.

You know, the soul searching, reflection, seeking forgiveness, a fresh start.
It speaks to me in ways that I am aware of and can verbalize, and then again in other ways that can't be put into words.

How is this time of year for you ? How is it for your family ?

Do you get into the spirit of the season or is it too much- all the preparations, the cooking, the cards, getting everyone prepared for services, keeping everyone well behaved at services, etc. ?

Do you have any tricks that help you make the best of the High Holy Days ? Is it a family time ? Do you manage to find time for yourself to reflect and soul-search ? Has the whole process of the Days of Awe changed with parenthood ?

These are but some questions on our mind as we approach this High Holy Day season.

Of course, then there are the "big" questions and thoughts. Will this be a year of health and safety for our family, loved ones and friends ? Will wisdom (all too elusive until now) be found among American voters, media and leaders ? What will the new year bring to Israel ? And please don't forget to say a prayer and do more, if you can, for those less fortunate than us.

In the midst of all these questions and reflections, we wish you and your families a most happy and healthy new year.

Shana Tova !

Sunday, August 05, 2007

Why Be Jewish ? - One View

Hello again to all.Hope your Summer is going well. For a long time I have thought that it is important for us to consider not only How to Be Jewish, but also "Why Be Jewish ?".

No, I am not contemplating conversion. But I do think it is important that we keepchallenging and rechallenging ourselves concerning the basic assumptions we makeabout what we do and why we do it.

There is so much depth and substance to our faith,our culture and our traditions. By asking and re-asking "why Be Jewish"it helps me avoid taking it for granted and falling into an "automatic pilot"mode.

With this in mind, I send along this piece that recently appeared in the New Jersey Jewish News.

What do you think ? Does this work for you and your family ? Would you add anything?Food for thought as we head into the home stretch for this Summer and towards the"Days of Awe".

Regards to you and your family.