It's June 2nd, and it's once again rain, thunder and lightning in Winnipeg, but I am immersed in light as I catch up on reading and sleep, and get back into an exercise routine.
I am thrilled that you will be joining us for these three months. And thank you, Laurelle, for making this work for us. There are, of course, many more reasons for gratitude, but they will have their public moment in time. You've made this dance possible for all of us, so remember this moment as we circle in joy.
I'm already busy reading books, scholarly articles, and essays on the pre-institute reading list. These are materials about Israel and the Diaspora, the nature and future of Jewish community, and how to reimagine Jewish life.
I know many of you are very busy, and summer is time to catch up on easy livin'. Enjoy every minute of it! And if you have an idle moment and your curiosity moves you, please take some time to look at what I'll be studying at the Hartman. I'll be posting links or copies of materials to you so that you can stay in touch and let me know your thoughts and questions about them.
I believe you can access the pre-programme reading list and either read online or print them by going to:
http://www.hartman.org.il/Resorce_Center_View.asp?Article_Id=709&Cat_Id=332&Cat_Type=Resorce_Center
(You may have to cut and paste the link to connect to the site, but it's there and the link does permit access to anyone, at least for now.)
Of late we've received invitations to several conferences and public events occurring in Israel during our stay. I'm not sure how they can be squeezed into an already rich schedule, but Laurelle and I will try. For example, we've discovered that the Israeli equivalent of the Toronto Film Festival will take place during our visit and have inquired about festival tickets.
Ah, sweet now! Right now I'm listening to a recording of Louis Armstrong singing one of my favourites: "What a Wonderful World". Many of you already know this song is one of the themes of the "Alternative" High Holy Day services Leslie Emery and I have lovingly and organically grown for the edification, pleasure, and spiritual delight of those who attend. It's already turning steely skies and a downpour into a hymn of glory to the Creator. I hope it's somewhere in the soundtrack of your life, too, whatever comes your way.
We're just getting our feet wet (at this moment, quite literally) -- and the water's fine. Let's stay in touch!
Looking forward to hearing from you,
Rabbi Larry
P.S. I thought it might be fun to share with you brief teachings I've found inspiring. Please let me know whether these resonate with you.
This is one that's often been paraphrased or cited, but only in part.
#1
"When one door closes another door opens; but we so often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door, that we do not see the ones which open for us." -- Alexander Graham Bell
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