We have reached the full moon of the first Pisces of the year. Remember, there are two in a leap year, so it is a time to observe. This marks the end of a cycle, so we can begin to prepare for the new cycle and what it may bring. And like the new annual cycle, new moons are for initiation and bringing in, and full moons are for casting out. So, on this full moon, cast away that which emotionally or subconsciously is weighing you down, and get ready to celebrate because you are now one month from a special holiday – one unlike any other, anywhere. It is the holiday celebrating a genocide that did not take place, and it is something the Jewish people have faced for their entire existence. No people have been in forced migration longer, become major parts of more places and economies, been forced to leave again and again, and faced constant hate, physical attacks, death, and extermination.
The entire history of the Jewish people is about such a series of migrations – country to country, world to world, life to life – always in search of peace, acceptance, freedom.
One would like to think the world progresses but look around. The world is angrier, more divisive, and more fearful, and it is fueled by the mob and the now dangerous ability to disappear and blend in through the use of social media, where we become part of “the group” and where our fear of being judged by others dominates what we do.
Where are the voices decrying injustice and stupidity when a champion 55-year-old Canadian-born, Israel-raised, female Jewish cyclist has been disinvited from speaking at International Women’s Day in Peterborough, Ontario. Why, you ask? She served in the IDF – the Israeli Defense Force- 30 years ago, as all young Israeli adults must do, because the organizers wanted to ensure the event was a “safe space.”
Where was the safe space on October 7? We must fight together to oppose the radical attitudes of acceptable hate. We are better than that, or we are doomed.
There are no longer individual repercussions. Two of the plagues reminded us of the danger of the mob. Fight the “herd” mentality to be a part of something dangerous. Stand up for your freedom, your rights, your ability to control your life in a loving and sharing way.
Purim is a reminder that we have fought not just for freedom but for survival, and they do go hand in hand. What life is there when there is no choice, options, exploration, or freedom? As I thought about the coming holiday and this week’s reading on the great artifacts of worship, I thought back to those famous words of pastor Martin Niemöller –
First, they came for the socialists, and I did not speak out—because I was not a socialist.
Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out— because I was not a trade unionist.
Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out—because I was not a Jew.
Then they came for me—and there was no one left to speak for me.
We are now and have always been great defenders.
We must speak out for those who cannot, and we must speak out for ourselves and hope others will also speak for us. There has been a lack of that in history, but it is never too late to change the course of humanity. Without realizing it, you are close to everyone, a part of the same fabric of life – the same DNA, atoms, and energy. We are all connected.
We are still at the mountain of G0d; we are getting the list of the rest of the items to be constructed – among them – the famous breastplate of Aaron – the breastplate of justice - with the four rows of stones representing the tribes of Israel and the mysterious Urim and Thummim - the tool that allowed direct questions to G0d – perhaps like our own magic 8-ball. These items are all part of the unification of art and science, emotion and intellect, the tools that allow us to bring our senses to our spiritual practices.
We are constantly reminded in our readings to help the needy, the alien, the widow, the orphan – we have been all, and one day, when we finally realize we are all one, there will be none.
Keep practicing forgiveness, and use this time to continue to forgive those you need to forgive, and ask forgiveness from those you need to seek forgiveness from, and give thanks and celebrate your freedom and joy; do not succumb to fear – and please feel free to share this audio and video with any you think might enjoy it, and, of course, enjoy all of our past audio and video episodes which are available on our YouTube channel.
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Thank you all for allowing me into your homes, into your electronic devices, into your hearts – as you are all with me in mine –
Be well, be happy, be healthy, be free, be kind, be forgiving, be compassionate, be independent of mind and deed, be mindful of your intentions, and be good to yourself. Continue to celebrate freedom of choice in your life, do not give in to the fear that is so prevalent, and enjoy the peace that comes from acceptance – as always, if you have any questions or suggestions or just want to say “hi,” please send me an email. I love hearing from you.
Remember, anytime you do not want to receive these anymore, please send me an email so I can remove you. And know that I truly appreciate your sharing your sacred time with me.
Enjoy and celebrate your life and the lives of others, and in doing so, be safe and happy. Think about the newness you want to bring into your life and may you all sow the seeds of and reap the rewards of peace, love, and miracles, and make sure you also celebrate your unique individuality and your incredible awesomeness.
Have a great year of love and life; remember, your world is what you make it. Just wish upon a star, continue to be a miracle in someone’s life, and light the light of love.
