Greetings friends
We have reached the time for 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, and been forced to leave again and again and face 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.”
There are no individual repercussions.
Two of the plagues reminded us of the danger of the mob. Fight the “herd” mentality to be a part of something that is dangerous. Stand up for your freedom, rights, and 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; they do go hand in hand. What life is there when there is no choice, no options, no exploration, and no freedom? As I thought about the holiday and about 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, the same atoms, the same energy. We are all connected.
Enjoy the holiday with people everywhere, tossing aside the mask that hides us and showing who we really are.
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 eight 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.
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, any time 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, be safe, my friends, be happy, and may you all sow the seeds of and reap the rewards of peace and 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 and continue to be a miracle in someone’s life and light the light of love.
Blessings
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