Simchat Torah · V’Zot HaBrachah · Deuteronomy 33:1–34:12
As an artist and calligrapher, I spend much of my life working with words—seeking ones that resonate, exploring their meaning, and finding ways to illuminate them. I call this process Visual Midrash— a contemporary art form that brings ancient Jewish texts and interpretations to life through visual expression. Rooted in the traditional practice of Midrash—which means “to seek” or “to interpret”—Visual Midrash offers a creative way to explore the deeper meanings, emotions, and questions embedded in the Torah and other sacred writings.
Visual Midrash can help make the sacred texts accessible, relevant, and alive—it bridges intellect and intuition, tradition and innovation, word and image, and provides a meaningful path to connection.
As we begin another Torah cycle, I wonder: How might Visual Midrash help illuminate our path? What new meaning will we discover in these familiar stories? And how might their wisdom guide us toward greater compassion, deeper connection, and more intentional care for ourselves and one another?
An Invitation to Journey Together
I invite you to explore the annual Torah cycle with me through my new book, Illuminated Journey. The book brings together my Torah illuminations and accompanying prayers, along with glimpses into the creative process behind them. You might spend a few moments with the weekly portion’s artwork, read its prayer, or use it as a starting place for your own reflection and journaling.
Through October 31, I’m offering 10% off copies of Illuminated Journey, plus free shipping.
Take a look inside Illuminated Journey with this short video flip through.
My hope is that these words and images will become companions on your own journey, opening space for connection, discovery, and moments of holiness.
Between Endings and Beginnings
In V’Zot HaBrachah, the last of the 54 Torah portions, Moses offers a final blessing to the people he has guided through the wilderness.
We reach the end of his life and the end of the Torah—and then return to the opening words of B’reishit: ‘In the beginning…’
I find comfort in this rhythm. There is always more to discover. A verse we barely notice one year may become the very words we need the next. A story we think we understand may open into a new question.
The Torah remains an enduring companion as our lives change. We bring our celebrations and disappointments, our gratitude and grief, our unanswered questions and hopes for those we love.
I love that Torah is cyclical—the beginning is the end, and the end is the beginning. And in between, there is a liminal space where we can pause, reflect, and breathe our hopes and dreams into the moment of becoming.
Here is my prayer for V’Zot HaBrachah.
Liminal Space
Source of All—
Help me embrace this place,
the liminal space
that effortlessly holds me,
inviting me to connect
with my breath
my body
my heart
my soul
and with You.
Grant me the gift of sacred time
exploring a new paradigm
when moments of wonder
scatter like poppies
punctuating my awareness.
Suspend my need for busyness
so I may transcend
the constant chatter of my thoughts
and ascend to the sweet awareness
that for this moment
there is nothing I must do,
nowhere I must go,
and that it is okay
to just
be.
Remembering as We Celebrate
As the third anniversary of the October 7th massacre approaches, we remember the lives taken and the families and communities forever changed. The sorrow of that day remains part of how we experience this holiday.
We make room for remembrance in our celebration. We stand beside one another, carrying what we can and allowing ourselves to be supported when the weight feels too great.
A Prayer for Simchat Torah
As we dance with the Torah
in a post-October 7th world,
may we remain present to
the echoing horrors
and the immense sorrow
stitched forevermore into
the fabric of this holiday.
As we light yahrzeit candles
for the 1,200 souls
who will not dance
with the Torah again this year,
may we keep hope in our hearts
and find joy in our celebration.
As we remember Hersh Goldberg-Polin,
Shiri, Ariel, and Kfir Bibas,
and all whose stories are
now indelibly inscribed
on the pages of our hearts,
may we find solace
in our shared grief
and comfort in being together.
As we embrace the annual cycle
of endings and new beginnings,
may connecting with community
and reading sacred text
help us grow in wisdom and understanding.
As we celebrate Simchat Torah,
may we dance with great joy,
make space for the deep sorrow,
and let the words of Torah be
an enduring source of inspiration
for us and for generations yet to come.
A Sukkot Miracle
This week also brings a profound sense of communal relief and gratitude. Following the attack aboard a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv, passengers and crew helped avert a catastrophe and bring the plane safely to the ground.
A Sukkot miracle.
We are deeply grateful for the courage of the Israeli passengers who intervened, the wounded captain, and the crew members whose actions helped save lives, including the off-duty pilots who landed the aircraft safely. Their courage is a source of communal pride and gratitude. May those injured find healing, and may all who endured this terrifying experience find comfort and support. As we approach Simchat Torah, we carry this gratitude alongside our grief, making room for both in our hearts and in our communities.
Caring for Ourselves and One Another
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month—a subject close to my heart as the mother of a daughter living with stage 4 breast cancer. In my blog posts this month, I’ll share information and artwork to encourage care, connection, and support.
This week, a simple reminder: Feel on the 1st. Become familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel, and contact your healthcare provider promptly about any changes. Self-awareness complements, but does not replace, recommended screening.
I’m also sharing a free coloring card, “You Are Always in My Heart.” I invite you to color it, add a personal message, and send it to someone who could use a reminder that they are loved.
Download the “You Are Always in My Heart” coloring card.
Guided Journaling Questions
- Which words, prayers, or blessings help light your path?
- Where in your life are you standing between an ending and a beginning?
- What becomes possible when you give yourself permission to pause and simply be?
- What helps you make room for both celebration and remembrance?
- Where could you offer yourself the care you so readily give to others?
A Blessing for the Journey
May the words we carry
help us meet this moment with compassion.
May we find comfort in one another
and courage to ask for what we need.
May the memories of those we love
continue to inspire acts of kindness.
May we make room for joy,
honor our sorrow,
and recognize the holiness within each soul.
May the light of Torah illuminate our journey,
guiding us toward connection, hope, and healing.
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