| We are horrified and grieving the loss of fifteen people, children and adults, who were killed during Chanukah celebrations on Sunday in Bondi Beach, Australia. We join so many friends in sitting in this heartbreak, and we are holding all who are impacted in our prayers. During this time there are many opportunities to engage in Jewish gatherings and prayer. These community events help us fight isolation and re-establish our sense of identity and faith. They also provide something that can be scarce after tragedy–some kind of roadmap when we feel devoid of hope. When embroiled in anger, fear, and confusion, these traditions, such as public menorah lightings, illuminate a way forward when we can’t see the way. Chanukah is a holiday of light, love, and resiliency. But after the shooting, your feelings this year may be more confused and varied. You might go through the motions while feeling a mismatch between your prayers or celebrations and your state of mind. After tragedy, we sometimes put aside our own emotions, thoughts or fears so that we can express our pride and stay focused on the greater good of our Jewish community. When we enter that state of single-mindedness for too long, we can begin to feel cut off from our own emotions or from others. How can we still participate in the rhythms of Jewish ritual after tragedy while not feeling so much weight and inflexibility? Even if we’re still participating in the same events, we can take on a slightly different mindset. As we light the Chanukiah, participate in family gatherings, and move one foot in front of the other, we can stay a little more curious and open. Instead of charging forward and ignoring our feelings, we can continue listening to ourselves and feeling things out as we go. If our rituals feel forced, we can accept our current reality without shame. Listening to our internal voices and being there for our community go hand-in-hand. If we remain open to the world around us, when hope appears again we will recognize it. Through this, not only can we be the light ourselves, but we can also see and feel the light and warmth of others. From the 10.27 Healing Partnership, I wish you and your loved ones a peaceful and joyful Chanukah. |