RECLAIMING
MY JEWISH ROOTS
I
was a very good Jewish girl turned Jewish mother. Yes, I am. But I haven't been this "Jewish"
for decades. I love the holidays and traditions, certainly bagels, lox and
blintzes. I was President and song leader for my youth group. I welcomed the holidays and shabbat when my children were young. What I never
really got from Judaism was the spiritual fulfillment I wanted. It was there
but not taught in the traditional ways. I began connecting with my own spiritual core through the arts, Nature,
and indigenous, mystical and eastern teachings. All these were extremely
valuable avenues for me to awaken my soul. But something was strongly calling
me to get back to my roots. Maybe it was my ancestors, kabbalah teachers dating
back to the 1500's!
Enter
Santa Fe, Land of Enchantment and City of Faith.
One
of my intentions when I moved to Santa Fe, New Mexico five months ago, was to
find a Jewish community that could help me learn more about my mystical roots
and the traditional Jewish prayers and rituals. Not one month after I moved
several people invited me to join some Jewish renewal groups in the area.
Jewish renewal has "energized thousands of seekers returning to Judaism,
including many whose journey has led them through other spiritual
traditions." That's me.

I
have been really enjoying the inclusive and creative services and gatherings.
Last night we had a Simchat
Torah celebration. Simcha means abundant joy.
About
nine of us danced, sang and unfurled the Torah (the five books of Moses - old
testament - handwritten on a parchment scroll), getting her ready to be read
from the very beginning, as this is the beginning of the Jewish new year. It
was a wonderful celebration and reminder of how important it is to be in
community and celebration, honoring our sacred roots and embracing the wisdom
of all traditions, during these times of great transition.
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