Rebbe Eli Cohen
Chadeish Yameinu, Santa Cruz, CA
Every moment is the present moment. Every moment contains the possibility of becoming the bridge to G!d's presence. Whether we travel near, far or not at all this summer, we can always take this journey of a lifetime.
As summer approaches, many in our community are anticipating taking vacations, and perhaps traveling somewhere. Having returned from traveling to Israel this past spring, many thoughts and images from that journey are still with me, not the least of which is meditating with all of you in mind at the shores of Kinneret in the Galilee.
Traveling can be a transforming experience. But we do not always have to go so far.
The journey inward, for example, which accompanies prayer or meditation, can be just such an experience. While many believe that they are not able, everyone can in fact take this trip. However, as with many journeys, sometimes a little preparation is required. Can we clear a little regularly scheduled time? Have we practiced quieting ourselves? Have we learned a technique or practice that helps us access this place? Have we really checked to see what our tradition has to offer?
Throughout the year, our Chadeish Yameinu community and our Jewish tradition offer opportunities for the most amazing journeys.
The period known as Omer, the seven weeks from Passover to Shavuot, is an example of a journey we can take both alone and with community. During these weeks, we see the world through the prism of the ways in which G!d works in the world. For a week, we focus on loving kindness, followed by a week looking at all the places we find strength through restraint and boundaries. We then spend a week relating to the harmony and beauty of the world, and so forth.
By the end of these seven weeks, we have journeyed to an unbelievable place. We come to a place where we can recognize that which is truly eternal – the present moment. The Omer teaches us that the splendor of the present moment is the bridge to the presence of G!d.
Every moment is the present moment. Every moment contains the possibility of becoming the bridge to G!d's presence. Whether we travel near, far or not at all this summer, we can always take this journey of a lifetime.
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