Missing You

Dear friends,

Some of you I see quite often on Zoom or at our internet services.  Then there are those whom I do not see, I miss.  

The synagogue feels very empty without you.

I know these months have been vexing for us all.  We are trying our best to navigate the minefield of contagion, understand how we can better protect citizens of all colors and faiths, our concern for Israel continues gnaw at our frayed nerves, our children’s education, parent’s health and so many other day-to-day issues that are worrisome.  We are all fixated at the multitude of issues swirling around us.  And there’s still precious little of worth to watch on tv!

These concerns flit around in the mind and are a nuisance.

I want to share a story with you about the Baal Shem Tov.  A wealthy man from a neighboring town invited the Baal Shem Tov to teach his son Torah.  So he invited the famous Rabbi to stay and educate his son.  Entering the home, the Baal Shem discovers that the house is full of demons raising havoc everywhere.  They throw things break dishes and make terrible noises.  The Baal Shem approaches them and speaks with them, telling the demons that they are welcome to stay in the house but they must live in the attic.  He could have tried to force them out but instead the Baal Shem limited their space.

Is there a space where we can put our demons?  Relegate them to a secure spot where their disturbances will be minimal?

Life always has had its problems.  We have dealt with them before, as have previous generations.  Your wellbeing is paramount.  Take time to enjoy the silences that you used to yearn for.  Take advantage of the outdoors, which beckons with its foliage, flowers and birds singing merrily from the treetops.  The intimacy that we can create during this time is priceless.  The demons can be vanquished to the attic.  That does not mean they do not exist.  What it does mean is that they do not have control over our house (us).

Life is fragile and uncertain.  That was true last year and last century.  It is precisely the challenge to see the golden hues of the world that makes life so precious and meaningful.

Blessings and Love,

Rabbi Jonathan Case

“Heal me God and I shall be healed!”  -Jeremiah 17:14