Dear members and friends of Congregation Beth Sholom,

Entering into the month of Adar is supposed to be a joyous occasion. Our Jewish calendar doesn’t just guide our year; it tries to also guide our emotions. It asks to be somber in the month of Av, reflective in the month of Elul, and joyous in the month of Adar. Famously Purim is the biggest feature of this month and it is truly a happy holiday.  But we don’t always feel the emotions that these months ask us to, and that is ok. I believe to be a healthy community we need to recognize our feelings for how we experience them instead of what we are supposed to feel.

 

There are reasons to find joy in our lives. The vaccine is being steadily administered to Alaskans, the sun is out more, and each week we get to celebrate Shabbat.  And so I encourage you to recognize your feelings as something real and important no matter what you experience. I also encourage you to work on finding the things that give you joy during this month.

 

As a religion of doing, this month, Judaism asks us to do the things that bring us joy. Whether it’s zoom chats with friends, skiing, or sneaking in some extra binge watching, the month of Adar asks us to be joyous by finding what gives us joy.

 

So I hope you feel your feels, but I also hope you take advantage of the joyous programming we are providing this month, which includes a trivia night and Zoom Purim megilah reading. Take care and stay safe out there.

 

B’Sholom,

 

Rabbi Abram Goodstein

 

All visitors who wish to worship with us are welcome. Though our Congregation is very committed to Reform Judaism, people from diverse Jewish backgrounds have found our liturgy appealing. Our facilities are beautifully located in a natural setting which enhances the worship experience. Please feel welcome to attend online.