Dear Friends:
I hope this post finds you and yours in safety and some semblance of peace during this current “wartime” in our world. I feel, at this time, we must feed our faith as we move through the next phases of the Pandemic. We are still in the middle of this crisis and moving forward will be difficult, at best. I hope this message is supportive in assisting you today and until the next time we meet and greet.
When we witnessed what was happening in Wuhan China at the beginning of this pandemic, each of us reacted differently. As a forward thinker I have been witnessing myself, in the face of others and took these past 40 days to review and reveal ways we can be responsible to one another. I also took time to recharge. When I became a rabbi eleven years ago today, I took the oath to responsibly feed our faith, no matter how challenging.
The dictionary explains emotional intelligence is “the capacity to be aware of, control, and express one’s emotions, and to handle interpersonal relationships judiciously and empathetically”. It’s the key to both personal and professional success. You’re deeply blessed and lucky if you have this in your life.The opposing factor to this is emotional congestion, which is caused by negative emotions and will prevent everyone’s success today and in the post Pandemic world.
Jewish mysticysm (Kabbalah) offers us contemplation and a greater perspective on the whole being. In the contemplation of the whole, we have five levels of the soul which exist within four worlds. Each soul level connects us to our esoteric truth and as we become more aware of them, we are better able to see the truth and meaning of life. Each world gives us reason and cause to spiritually balance from within and I hope it feeds your soul, hence your faith as we face the days of an unsettled future.
The first, and lowest, level of the soul is referred to as Nefesh. Nefesh is our life force, our animal soul. Our Nefesh soul is focused on the mundane; eating, sleeping, bodily functions and such. Nefesh exists in the world of action, known as “Asiyah”. In the morning, as we rise, there are prayers for this level of the soul. These prayers remind us that we are all “b’tzelem Elohim”, made in the image of God. So as we live in action, shall we choose peace or war? Will we pray it forward?
The next level of the soul is referred to as Ruach, and it exists in the world of formation, known as “Yetzirah”. This piece of our soul exists in pure emotions. It’s fueled by love and passion and also separates us with hatred and violence. The success of this level depends on how we cultivate our heart. Cultivating compassion in the face of fear at this time is truly a full time job. There is an entire book of psalms and poetry available or creating art might be an outlet. The world is a vivid paintbrush right now. What might you paint?
The next level of the soul is Neshama, and appears in the world of creation, known as “Briyah”. This level lives in our breath and aligns with creation through science and wisdom. This level has an abundance of teachings on understanding the laws of nature. In this level and world, we can choose to divide or unify. So much is going on here, we must remember that the simple fact that we can breathe is a gift. Remember with greater gratitude today for if not now, when? The Shema prayer (the most important prayer of Judaism) acknowledges unity should you need to feed your spiritual breath.
The next level of the soul is known as Chaya and lives in the world of emanation, known as “Atzilut”. Chaya is truly that timeless place where where we merge as one. It’s the moment of truth and a place where no secrets are held. Are you telling yourself stories about someone that is dampening your current experience? Now might be a good time to clean that up. Reach out now!
Yechidah is the fifth level of the soul and is the divine spark of connection within all worlds. In current times, each level of the soul is under the spotlight.
Just show up and do your best. Reach out for help. Have frequent and honest conversations. I know I have failed others and will probably do so again. At least I am showing up though. Remember, if we haven’t failed, then we haven’t showed up. I am here to spiritually guide you. If you lost a loved one and need a distance funeral, memorial, Kaddish ritual to be performed, I’m here. If you seek ancestral healing and grief support, I am here.
Speaking of showing up, on May 14, 1948, 72 years ago, David Ben-Gurion (Executive Head of the World Zionist Organization) declared Israel an independent state. This successful event is celebrated every year on the 5th of Iyar, in the Hebrew calendar. I celebrate it with Jewish pride today with a bit of self indulgence. I wanted my Ordination to be on this date, not only in honor of Israel Independence Day, but for Mother’s Day as well. We have Rabbi Loring Frank of All Peoples Synagogue to thank for this honor, and of course Creator, who brought us together. If you don’t know him, his spiritual presence is truly as great as his smile. Click here and see for yourself.
Humbly,
Rabbi Melinda “Bracha” Bernstein
(954) 901-1355
Smile often, even with your protective mask.
We will prevail & Israel will always prevail.
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