Wednesday, January 26, 2011

MISHPATIM 5771 - on the value of "being there"

Hi everyone,

Check out this week's video presentation here, on my YouTube channel.

Happy and meaningful reflection --

Rabbi Jonathan Blake

4 comments:

  1. I don't know whether this was penned while studying /veheyeih sham/ at the end of Mishpatim.

    But, consider this teaching of the Rebbe Nachman of Breslov:

    "You are wherever your thoughts are. Make sure your thoughts are where you want to be."

    DavidS

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  2. For those of you who function in the effort yields reward format, I want to share my personal experience with being "present". While the journey may be frought with anticipation or anxiety at least you know what to do. Get on the plane, drive the car, etc., etc. But when we arrive at that destination what we will find or what will be expected of us, is part of life's mysteries. My father, of blessed memory, always told us to enjoy the anticipation and to look forward to everything life has to offer. Some of you know that I take a wonderful dog to a nursing home each week. On our way I thnk about the people who are not doing well and may not live much longer or may have died since my last visit. Instead of fearing what I may find when I get there I look forward to the opportunity to see them smile even if it is the last time I may see them. For those residents as for our family and friends our attention complete with eyes, ears and most important our hearts being open, is all that matters. When I leave my rewards have been too numerous to mention. But, the effort has been worth it as it will be in your life when you immerse yourself in the "moment" and savor every bit of life that is in front of us every minute. Thank you and Shabbot Shalom.

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  3. Franklin and David: Right on! Thank you for this beautiful posting, Franklin, and thanks, David, for Nachman's wisdom.

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  4. Friends: think about these images the next time you recite Mi Chamocha.

    http://www.buzzfeed.com/mjs538/the-best-egypt-protest-signs-from-around-the-world

    (Paste this address into your browser).

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