This week’s Torah portion, Vayeira, reminds us that faith and legacy often take root in the simple act of showing up. When Abraham plants a tamarisk tree, he establishes a living covenant — a promise that continues to grow long after him. My prayer Seeking Connection begins with the word Hineini — “Here I am” — and that sacred readiness has become my mantra as I accompany my daughter on her cancer journey. I can’t control the path ahead, but I can choose how I show up in this moment: with love, courage, and faith. Each prayer, each act of compassion, is a seed we plant — our legacy in the making.
Illustrated Prayer
Lech Lecha — Trusting the Journey
“Lech Lecha — Go forth to the land that I will show you.”
This week’s Torah portion invites us to trust the journey, even when the destination is unknown. In this week’s reflection, I share my illustration of Genesis 12:1, the prayer Not Knowing from my soon-to-be-released book Illuminated Journey, and a new illustrated prayer, Journey.
I also share information and resources about BRCA awareness in the Jewish community — and ask for prayers for my daughter, Samantha Trattner (Shira Natanya bat Yocheved), who is courageously navigating her own unexpected journey.
Rainbow Promise
Holding On to Hope “My rainbow I have placed in the clouds, and it shall be for a sign of the covenant between Myself and the earth.” Each year when we read Parashat Noach, I am reminded that rainbows appear only after the rain. The story of the flood is one of devastation and renewal—a reminder […]
In the Liminal Space Between Endings and Beginnings
Each year on Simchat Torah, we complete the reading of Deuteronomy and immediately begin Genesis, stepping into the liminal space between endings and beginnings. This sacred turning invites us to hold joy and sorrow, grief and hope, as we remember, reflect, and renew our connection to the Divine and to one another.
Standing Together in the Days of Awe
This week, as we read Parashat Vayelech and observe Shabbat Shuva—the Shabbat of Return—we are reminded of God’s abiding presence during the Ten Days of Awe. I’m sharing a new prayer, You Are Not Alone, along with a responsive reading, May I Find Forgiveness. May these words bring comfort, hope, and inspiration as we prepare for Yom Kippur.
Standing at the Precipice of the New Year
As we prepare to welcome 5786, Parashat Nitzavim invites us to pause at the threshold of a new year. In this week’s blog, I share my Torah illumination of Deuteronomy 30:6, my prayer At the Precipice, journaling prompts for reflection, and a closing blessing for a sweet and meaningful year ahead.