Saturday, August 23, 2008

"How good and pleasant it is that friends live peacefully together" inspired by Psalm 133

Dr Forman cleared me to go to Friday night services, so the first time in months, I got to welcome the Sabbath bride in a congregational setting. 

Despite my mask, and wearing a Fedora over my peach fuzz (I am sure my yamaka would have fallen off, and while some think it is cute to tape a bow to a bald  baby girl's head, no-one thinks I would be cute with a taped down skullcap), I was able to forget myself and transplant for awhile.

Perspective and perception are changed by being part of something bigger and older and much more charitable than I am. It is good for me, because it is not about me.

That is one of the many blessings of religion. Opening up the world. To quote a rabbi from another tradition: The kingdom of heaven is at hand.  At hand. That means right here and now. If I am mindful and heartfelt. Religious services are a time for remembering that everything is connected. Actually that last point you can get from just reading Tom Robbins. Sadly, I had to skip the wine and cakes and socializing after services as my mask makes me an most unwelcomed dinner guest. And I am not allowed to drink.

But life is returning to normal.

3 Comments:

Blogger jbh said...

Shabbat Shalom!

August 23, 2008 at 12:01 PM  
Blogger Barry B. said...

From a follower of that 'other rabbi', I wish you peace and strength.

BTW, did you know the previous musical post, Mrs. Robinson, was not written for the movie? It was actually entitled, 'Mrs. Roosevelt' (yes, that Mrs. Roosevelt). They changed the title and some of the lyrics for the movie. The music was the best thing about the movie, IMO.

August 23, 2008 at 2:15 PM  
Blogger jonap said...

Brian,
So happy to hear of your excellent progress after the transplant. Elsie and I (and all others) wish and expect the best for you. You deserve it and inspire us all.

Please call on me if there is any way I can be of help.

Your friend,

Jon Perlman

August 29, 2008 at 11:57 PM  

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