Tevet 5779 טבת

Sunday, December 9, 2018.  It was so cold overnight that the lake has finally frozen over.  Arriving early, before sunrise, I could make out the form of a dog (perhaps coyote?) wandering across the ice, following a scent in the darkness.  Standing lakeside in 16-degree air, it is difficult to imagine that this was the month for sowing in ancient Israel – wheat, barley, oats, peas, lentils, vetch and flax were all planted, and the growing season began.

Or maybe not so difficult.  Wherever we are in the world, Tevet holds the equinox, winter or summer, a twice-yearly reminder of the cyclical nature of the universe.  Here in the Great Lakes, winter’s darkest day begins the cycle of light returning – it is only a short leap to imagine the spring and new growth to come.

Our sages teach that Tevet contains energy for the healing of anger.  This morning our little group talked of the cyclical nature of anger, of its return again and again, like all of our emotions. Anger is useful, spurring us to take action for change, to be aware of our imperfect humanness, to reconcile with those with whom we are in conflict.  But this is only possible if we are able to transform it from darkness into light, from ego-driven aggression to selfless concern for a better world, and for more human connections within our family and community. This month, may we each find ways recognize anger and transform it, growing it into good as the light grows on us. — Kirby