Dear CBO Family,
We are on the brink of a new year and every time I end a conversation with someone we always share the same salutation, “May it be a better year.” I wonder if that is something that you’re noticing too? It’s completely understandable considering the year we have had, and so many of us are balancing the need to go with the flow with the desire to do something to make it a better year. Our tradition gives some guidance:
‘We learn in the Talmud, And Rabbi Yitzḥak said: "A person’s sentence is torn up on account of four types of actions". These are: Giving charity, crying out in prayer, a change of one’s name, and a change of one’s deeds for the better…. And some say: Also, a change of one’s place of residence cancels an evil judgment
-Talmud Bavli Rosh Hashana 16b,
Each one of these possibilities gives agency back to us. Many feel that we are at the whim of what is going on around us. While it may feel that way and we acknowledge that we are one speck among a much larger world, we can remind ourselves that there are many things in our control. This is not just lip service. The Talmud tells us that we are not life’s victims and we are resourceful and strong enough to transform even the harshest of conditions.
I share this teaching as I am about to go through some “shinui,” some adjustments as well. I have the great gift of a Sabbatical. After over 7 years of working in our community, I will take 6 weeks starting January 1st, to fill my barrel with knowledge, energy, and reflection.
When I first began my tenure in what was then BJC, we signed a ketubah, a professional “wedding license” solidifying our commitment to one another. The growth we have fostered together is incredible. I look forward to take this time to truly appreciate everything we have accomplished and to reenergize for all the learning and joyousness we will share when I return in mid February. The remaining 3 months of the Sabbatical will be sprinkled throughout next Winter and Spring, during the periods where we have no B’nai Mitzvah. It seemed prudent to not take the full time right now amidst the pandemic.
During this time, so many of our members will be stepping up to teach, illuminate the Torah with their perspectives, and lead parts of the service. How proud I am that our community is so rich with capable and inspiring individuals. Cantor Diamond will be taking care of all pastoral care from illnesses, to death, as well as celebrations of life. He also has back-up from local rabbis should there be multiple emergencies at the same time. I appreciate the space that our community is giving me to recharge, but please, if you see me at the supermarket, you do not need to hide your face!
To say that I am grateful is an understatement. To say that I feel lucky and appreciated is simply not enough. I am blessed to be the rabbi of CBO.
May 2021 be a year of happiness, growth, renewal, love, sweetness, acceptance and wisdom.
Shabbat Shalom
Rabbi Bernstein
