3 months ago, my life changed forever. The good news came on the wings of a crying, screaming, pooping angel. Thanks to the generous family leave policies of the State of Rhode Island and Temple Beth-El, I have had the blessing of time to celebrate many beautiful moments during my transition into parenthood. Reflecting on the last few months, I am filled with overflowing gratitude for the time and space to enjoy our newly expanded
family: for the laughs that become tears of joy or memory; for the sleepless nights and nap-filled days; watching our son experience the world for the first time as a new soul filled with wonder and learning to smile. But, what makes it all sweeter, is the generous outpouring of support we have received from our community. There was not a single second when we thought we had to walk this path alone.
It’s fitting that this week’s Torah portion, Parshat Vayakhel, begins with Moses convening the congregation of Israel using a word that shared a root with kehillah - community in Hebrew. What makes the Israelites a community, despite their personal and ideological differences, is their willingness to give of themselves for the sake of the greater whole. Through our individual and distinct gifts, we can make a holy dwelling place for God. Like light refracted through a sacred prism, when we reflect the inherent light of one another, the diversity of our communal refractions provide a magnificent spectrum of belonging. One wherein our diversity is a testament to the infinite wisdom of the Divine and our ongoing partnership in the work of Creation. This is why (in Pirkei Avot 2:4), Hillel teaches "al tifrosh min hatzibur,” do not separate [thyself] from the community. Each one of us is uniquely equipped to contribute this kehillah kedosha - this holy community - a true Beth-El, a house of God.
I have missed you all and look forward to reconnecting and introducing you to my new favorite person: Levi Benjamin. We look forward to sharing our plentiful communal gifts with him in the days, weeks, months and years ahead. If you are also a new parent, join us for religious school tefilah Sunday, March 17th at 10 a.m. and our new Bagels & Babies program immediately following.
