Ki Tisa: 20 Adar 5767

In this parsha, we start to think about the concept of Shabbes. It's a hard one, one that is a topic of discussion often in Jewish circles. Personally, I am endlessly fascinated by the ways people observe Shabbat. Some are completely shomer Shabbes and that is that. Some stay in and light Shabbat candles and have a family meal. Some have a family meal, light the candles then all go their different weekend directions. Some singles and young couples light candles and hang around the house and rest for the week ahead. Some go to shul. Some keep Shabbes unless there is a special circumstance or event. Some take a small time out. Some take the full 25 hours.

And, in my book, that's all okay because maybe what makes Shabbes the time of re-nefesh (my English tag word for "re-ensoulment") is a matter of doing your heart's desire. It's perfectly okay to keep shomer Shabbes, don't get me wrong. I've done Shabbes just about every way there is to do Shabbes and I've found meaning each time. I'm just saying that just because the official word frowns upon certain things, that it's a matter of heart and motivation to re-interpret our lives as we go.

For example, we all know there is a prohibition from sewing on Shabbes. Well, there is the work prohibition, and once upon a time, and still to some now, sewing is a means of making a living. So, sure, yes, best to take the day of rest from sewing! But, what about to the busy professional with little personal time who lives to sew? What if sewing is a family tradition, passed from one generation to the next? Wouldn't sewing on Shabbes make that person think of fond memories and be refreshed with not only downtime but an activity that s/he takes the time to savor?

Just a thought. Like I said, I've done many different variations of Shabbes and I've felt meaning int hem all because my heart was in the right place. I turned down options that my heart wasn't completely invested in, whereas sometimes during the week, I have tons of things to do that I'd rather not. Shabbes is re-ensoulment. Reconnecting to yourself to be the best you that you are capable of being so you are fueled to make the world as good of a place as you are capable of making it. Isn't that what sacredness is about in the end?

Shabbat Shalom. Peace of re-ensoulment.