“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.
Journaling
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.
Looking for Blessings
Parashat Ki Tavo teaches that every threshold holds spiritual possibility. Explore blessings in your own comings and goings with a prayer, journaling prompts, and creative resources.
Free Customizable High Holy Day Graphics
Preparing for the High Holy Days? I’m excited to offer you a free 30-day trial of ZenScribe—an easy new platform to create customizable Judaic graphics, greeting cards, prayers, Visual Tefillah slides, and more. Start your free trial today—no credit card required!
Justice, Justice Shall You Pursue
This week’s Torah portion, Shoftim, opens with the command “Tzedek, tzedek tirdof — Justice, justice shall you pursue” (Deut. 16:20). In the Torah, when a word appears twice, we are taught to pay special attention. The doubling of “justice” reminds us that pursuing justice is not optional, but central to who we are. As Elul begins, Shoftim calls us to reflect inwardly and act outwardly — using our unique gifts to help create a more inclusive, compassionate, and just world.