Points of Connection

Reclaiming my Jewish Roots

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.

Turned on by Life

Leonardo da Vinci was man who was fascinated by life. He allowed his internal creative source to guide him. Leonardo explored topics as broad as the flight of a bird, the internal organs of the human being and even how military machines might best be built. Of course, he expressed himself most elegantly through his paintings and sculptures.

Much like the impressionists who pushed the artistic norms of their times, Leonardo had the audacity to follow his heart and paint scenes of Nature that didn’t include any people.  Heaven forbid! His courage has earned him admiration across centuries.