This Shabbat’s Torah portion, Kedoshim, lays out what scholars call the Holiness code. Holiness is a key concept in the Torah. It adds a spiritual element to Judaism. Judaism is not just a call to be ethical but also challenges us to be holy—kedoshim tihiyu/you should be holy. Holiness is not easily described. It is a significant attribute of God. In Judaism, we sanctify the festivals, Shabbat and weddings. It is more than just “special”—it is being connected to other people, to the world and to God.
       The Hasidic masters taught that you shouldn’t think that holiness can only be found in doing mitzvot/religious acts. Nor is it only found in extraordinary moments such as the birth of a child or in an incredible sunset. Holiness can be found in the everyday moments that fill our lives.
       In this understanding, holiness is a basic way of seeing and experiencing life. It represents a striving to be present in each moment (even as we know that often we will be distracted or unconscious). It reminds us to celebrate the gift of our lives. It is more than being kind and compassionate, though of course that can be an essential element of holiness. Holiness means being in touch with wholeness. It acknowledges the preciousness of existence. 
       Even as we experience existential aloneness, holiness fosters a sense of existential connectedness to the universe. When we experience that sense of connectedness, we in turn are able to respond with our best selves to others, meeting them with caring, compassion and love. A conversation with a friend, an unexpected smile, a beautiful flower, or a moment of insight all have the potential to be moments of connection to the wholeness underlying the universe. Holiness can be found in every interaction, when we really hear what is being said, and when we choose a generous response.

       In these stressful times, it is even more important:

To answer yes to the oldest question in the world: Am I my fellow’s keeper?

To respond with patience, especially when it is in short supply, 
To use our inner light to dispel the spreading darkness of fear and rumor,
and, amidst all the uncertainty, to hold high one indisputable truth:

 We, each and every one of us, are victims of this challenging time,
and yet, even now we can find holiness

when we meet one another with kindness and understanding.