Greetings friends
 
The new year began with the freedom of the people.  A promise made – all those years ago that not only would G0d lead the people to Egypt, but he would bring them out – this is the promise kept.
 
But changes had taken place, and changes need to take place.  This 11-day journey will take 40 years, and during those 40 years, the people will have the constant companionship of the deity – enveloped in a cloud by day and fire by night.
 
This group of people – forever after, known as the wilderness generation - had been subjugated for 430 years and were completely provided for – given their food; their water; their lodgings - they knew nothing of independence, of freedom, of initiative – they would have to learn and what they ultimately learned has been passed down to us so that friends - no dream is too big; no challenge too great, nothing we want for our future is beyond our reach -
 
Keep dreaming and keep reaching.  We all encounter red seas to cross.  When we have our backs to the wall as they did with an opposing army on one side and a sea on the other – they went forward – as do we all.  We take a stand; we go forward, we survive, and we thrive.
Only fear can hold you back – fear – the projection of something negative that hasn’t happened in a current situation.
 
And every year, we recreate the event of freedom to remind ourselves of its importance.
 
Just as we can overcome the plagues of life, we can overcome the feelings of constraint.  The ancient name of Egypt was not Egypt.  It was Mitzraim – a word that means constraint.  We were freed from the constraints of fear once, and we remind ourselves annually that freedom is our right and was the most important holiday in the bible.
 
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.   This episode will be posted on our channel - click here to watch the Rabbi David Gellman Show in the 2023 cycle.
 
And if you are one of the people this was sent to by a friend and want to receive it yourself, let me know, and I will add you to my mailing list.
 
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 and do not give in to the fear which is so prevalent, and enjoy the peace that comes from acceptance – and as always - if you have any questions or suggestions or want to say “hi,” please send me an email.  I love hearing from you.
 
And 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. In doing so, be safe, my friends, be happy, and may you all sow the seeds of and reap the rewards of peace, love, and miracles. Make sure you also celebrate your unique individuality and your incredible awesomeness. 
 
And remember – your world is what you make it.  Just wish upon a star and continue to be a miracle in someone’s life and light the light of love.  May the year bring all your hopes, dreams, and wishes to fruition.
  
Blessings