The summer can be a time of rest and renewal. Kids are off at camp, turning to experiential learning, building social connections and forging personal growth. Adults also can take this as an important time for stepping back. I turn to the quiet of the summer to nourish new approaches to Torah and take time for rest, exploration, and vacation. This stepping back is a necessary part of life and it reminds me of a particular moment in our services.
Before the Amidah, we take three steps back and three steps forward. Before entering into conversation with God, we must withdraw in some way. It is not always possible to be in the heat and intensity of prayer and conversation. Similarly, we cannot live in the constant drumming of our intense lives. Stepping back allows us once again to choose to step into relationship with intentionality. We often go on autopilot. Stepping back requires every one of us to break our normal pace and start a new conversation with ourselves and with something larger than our own ego.
I feel incredibly lucky that our community encourages this time for reflection and renewal. Thank you to everyone who steps forward to teach and lead while Cantor Kowitz and I take the time we need to prepare for the year ahead.
May this Shabbat bring you closer to a sense of peace and fulfillment. May you take the time you need to come closer to the version of yourself that makes you feel whole.
Shabbat shalom,
Rabbi Bernstein
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SERVICES Friday, July 12- Thursday, July 18
Friday 8:00 PM Kabbalat Shabbat/Sisterhood Saturday 9:00 AM Nosh and Drash 9:45 AM Shabbat Service Sunday 9:00 AM Minyan Monday 6:30 AM Minyan Wednesday 8:00 PM Minyan requested by Warren Siegel Thursday 8:00 AM Minyan
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