2013 comes to an end: in many ways it was a wonderful, fulfilling and interesting year; and yes, in some ways it was God-awful - the pain endured by so many...difficulties at work and at home...illness, sadness and despair...and particularly the journey we shared in some minor way with those who suffered loss and disappointment. To alleviate that pain remains a most heartfelt goal...
And yet, I am inspired to think of the bright spots that dotted the calendar...and to use them to cultivate a sense of gratitude for the many blessings that keep us buoyed throughout. So here are some of those thoughts to frame this transition between the year that was, and the new one yet to be. In no particular order, just that of my rambling mind.
Music: a renewed interest in the Black Crowes, thanks in particular to one special friend; an ongoing love for all things vital like the Who, Kinks, Stones, Zep; and all things jazz...
Books: Thomas Jefferson - the Art of Power by Jon Meacham; Shai Held's Abraham J OSHA Heschel! the Call of Transcendence; World Peace and other 4th-Grade Achievements by John Hunter...
Other reads: www.supermansamuel.blogspot.com...'Nuff said...
Food: introducing V to Brazazz in Chicago; cooking with Little Jazz; culinary exploits at home and on the road...
Fun: Triple-D on Food Network (maybe I'll bleach my hair); Angel's Envy (thanks Matt); cherry Gibson...
Professional experiences: getting to sing, lead and celebrate with two very special student cantors, Dave and Lucy...
Community involvement: the sacred privilege to serve the United Religious Community of St. Joe County, committees of the CCAR, and especially the rabbinic/educational/cantorial committee (RECC) of OSRUI...
Camp: to fundraiser serve on faculty, send my children and encourage others to enjoy this most vital experience...
Inspirations: Julie, Neshama, David L., Rachel L., Gayle and always PT...
Sacred privilege: to be part of the #36rabbis effort raising funds and awareness in support of pediatric cancer research, in memory of beloved Sam Sommer, child of our dear friends Rabbis Michael and Phyllis. Your example has taught us through this unfathomable ordeal. It is a humbling honor to carry his spirit as an inspiration for the worthy work we now do.
Most undeserved status: maintaining the love and connectedness of such a great group of beloved friends and comrades, and mostly of my own immediate family. Let's do better, love more, and enjoy truly in the year, and God-willing years, ahead.
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