This week, Torah, the Jewish calendar, and personal experience converge in a powerful way. As we read Parashat Tazria-Metzora, enter the healing month of Iyar, and count the Omer through the lens of Tiferet, I reflect on what it means to hold hope and heartbreak at the same time while accompanying both my daughter and my father on their cancer journeys.
Torah
Answering the Call
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.
Sojourn to Sinai
Parashat Yitro brings us to Sinai—and to Exodus 20:8: “Remember the Sabbath day to sanctify it.” This week’s prayer, practice, and journaling prompts invite you to shift into silence, settle into stillness, and sojourn into spaciousness.
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!
The Light of Kindness
This week’s Torah portion, Chayei Sarah, has always held special meaning for me — both because it was my Bat Mitzvah parasha and because kindness is one of my core values. In this portion, Rebecca’s generous act of drawing water not only for Abraham’s servant but also for his ten camels becomes a turning point in the unfolding story. Her kindness is wholehearted, intuitive, and transformative — a reminder that small, genuine acts can change the world.
As I accompany my daughter through her recent diagnosis of stage four, triple-negative breast cancer, I’ve been deeply touched by the kindness of our community. Your messages, prayers, and gestures of support have strengthened and comforted us during this difficult time. I would be grateful if you would keep Sam — Shira Natanya bat Yocheved — in your Mi Shebeirach prayers.
This week’s illustrated prayer, The Light of Kindness, invites us to let our souls shine through compassion and connection. I hope it brings comfort, inspiration, and a sense of blessing to your week.