Answering the call of the shofar

Yesterday I joined Jewish people around the world to hear the call of the shofar during the celebration of our Jewish New Year. The shofar is a rallying cry. Its echoes are meant to move us toward and challenge us to seek renewal, growth, and set intentions. Each of us hears the call differently. The shofar reminds me that we are called to show up. To feel a kinship with a community that understands the pain of prejudice and hatred. To take initiative.

We are all called to listen and then act. 

In our messy, divisive world, it feels hard to know where to start. I have a suggestion. 

Start.

Show up.

No step forward is too small. 

Listen actively.

Create a safe space for the people in your life to be authentic. Be present for another human to feel seen, heard and valued.

Practice the values of your faith. 

In the words of Brene Brown, “At the end of the day, at the end of the week, at the end of my life… I want to be able to say that I have contributed more than I have criticized.”  

We must show up in solidarity because liberation from this plague of bigotry requires us to act together. I believe in the collective power of our common action.

May we all have a sweet, healthy, meaningful year ahead of us.

#love #empathy #pluralism #trifaith

with gratitude,