Religion and Nature…Together in 5781

I have never been overly religious. I believe in God, the universe, some higher power that
presents possibilities to us in different ways, and we have to be awoke enough to see them and have the faith and courage to take action.
I feel culturally Jewish, but more spiritually Buddhist.

The High Holidays this year for me were very personal and a time of reflection on where I am and where I want to go. I strive to be awake, do what fills me up with joy, follow my passions, face my fears, and let the people I love know it, through my actions and words. I will be a positive influence in my community and the world, take care of myself physically, mentally, and spiritually, so that I have the strength to be able to care for others. Kindness and gratitude will carry me through my life.

I spent both Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kipper doing what has truly become one of my life’s passions, solo hiking up a mountain with a beautiful view on top. The combination of the strenuous effort to reach your goal, while having to be awake and mindful (so you don’t get lost or fall off!) is a good metaphor for life. The beauty of the journey through the forest, up the rocks, to the summit feels to me like healing for my soul. The breathtaking views, the air, the sweat, and the touch of the sun and wind make me feel so much closer to the Universe. Our crazy world is so far away, and all that exists is the all encompassing beauty of The Natural World. I feel that one day, when it’s my time, on a mountain I will be, and you will know…I was happy.