Parashat Vayikra begins not with a command, but with a calling. This week’s reflection explores the intimacy of God’s call to Moses, the meaning of the small alef in Vayikra, and what it means to listen for the work we are truly called to do. It also includes my prayer, “The Call,” and a glimpse into my new exhibit at the Olitsky Art Gallery at Congregation Beth Or.
Illuminated Journey
Illuminated Journey, Community Blessings & Shelter from the Storm
My heart is still overflowing from celebrating Illuminated Journey in Orlando—book launch, exhibition, and Havdalah with my Havurah. I’m also holding those in the path of a major winter storm, and sharing a prayer you can copy and share: “Shelter of Peace.”
Standing on Holy Ground
A Parashat Shemot reflection on Exodus 3:14—“Ehyeh asher ehyeh”—and the burning bush as an invitation to turn aside, pay attention, and stand on holy ground.
Deepening Connections:
As we conclude the Book of Genesis with Parashat Vayechi, we reflect on Genesis 49:25—blessings “above and below”—and the strength we draw from Torah and community. Included: a new prayer, small acts of kindness, guided journaling prompts, and a closing blessing for this season of transition. Plus, a joyful update: Illuminated Journey is now available!
Showing up in Love; Planting Seeds of Legacy
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.
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.