“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.
Prayer
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.
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.
Opening the Gates
This week’s Torah portion, Re’eh, reminds us that life is filled with choices—both large and small—and that our decisions ripple outward to shape the world around us. As we welcome the month of Elul, a season of cheshbon hanefesh (soul-accounting), may we choose wisely, bless abundantly, and prepare our hearts for the journey of t’shuvah.
Finding Our Way Back: A Journey of Alignment and Intention
As we begin the Book of Devarim and approach Tisha B’Av, we’re invited to reflect on the words that shape our stories and the values that guide our return. This week’s blog features a prayer for alignment, a Torah illustration inspired by Deuteronomy 1:1, journaling prompts for intentional living, and an invitation to join our Elul Explorations: Five Gates of Growth.