Embracing Jewish Tradition to Process Trauma and Grief
Trauma is the response to a deeply distressing or disturbing event that overwhelms an individual’s ability to cope, causes feelings of helplessness, and diminishes their sense of self and their ability to feel the full range of emotions and experiences. Many of us in the Jewish community have experienced some sort of trauma or grief due to October 7th, the ongoing conflict, and the global rise in antisemitism.
Resources for Marking the Anniversary of October 7th
These materials include readings, interviews, and more that reflect on the year that has passed since the October 7th attacks.
Crossing the Bridge from the Particular to the Universal
This year, as Jews across the globe begin to prepare for the High Holy Days, the most sacred time of year, I personally feel a sense of deep despair and fierce urgency to enter the year of 5786 embracing the particular and the universal.
Right Here, Right Now: How Meditation is Like Shabbat
"Take a moment to settle in to being here," I say aloud. My eyes are closed, but I know there are three other people in the room this morning. I heard them walk in, each to their own place in the sanctuary, and I wait until the sounds of their arrival have
Five Takeaways from a Jewish Meditation Retreat for Activists
A couple of weekends ago, I did something totally beyond my comfort zone. Along with 20 other Jewish activists, I attended a contemplative, mostly silent, meditation retreat through the Institute for Jewish Spirituality.
How Meditation is Preparing Me for the High Holidays
In June, I saw a post in a local Facebook group that intrigued me: "Stop! Take a break! Join us for Group Meditation in the City."
With this notice, a young couple, Hadas and Netanel Cohen, invited Nahariyanis (residents of Nahariya, Israel, where I live) to
Poems of Sorrow and Hope
As I wrestled with my feelings after October 7th, I found that poetry offered me an unexpected outlet. Whether reflecting on the lives lost, the joy of seeing hostages come home, or the comfort I found in our traditions, writing gave me a respite from the complex emotions I was experiencing.
Two Pockets, Two Lessons, One New Year
As the shofar’s call approaches and we step into the sacred space of a new year, we are invited to hold two truths at once: that our lives matter beyond measure, and that we are but a small part of a vast and unfolding universe.
18 Jewish Reads for Tweens and Young Adults
Kids have plenty of ways to connect with Judaism. But one route goes underrecognized: Jewish books.
Let Kids Read Books During High Holiday Services
In the fifth grade, I aged out of my synagogue’s High Holidays kiddie services. Countless Jewish families have faced this dilemma over the years. Many of us consider Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur the only two occasions when attending services is mandatory.
