Wednesday, February 2. We had a taste of warmer weather this morning – 40 degrees and raining a bit, making last week’s deep snow base soft and a challenge to walk. Freezing temperatures and more snow are coming our way – it must be February! A good thing we have two Adars this year, pushing holidays a little later. We have some hope of hints of spring at Passover.
In the Purim story of Esther, which we read and celebrate this month, the highest evil (the actions of Haman to obliterate the Jewish people) is transformed to become the highest joy – the release of our people from that evil decree, and the fall of Haman himself. At Purim and for the whole month, joy and laughter are commanded to us, along with good food and drink, and the sharing of gifts with our neighbors, especially those less fortunate. In this year of two Adars, we honor the Purim story in the second month, so the first month is one to prepare – make a better costume, learn some new jokes, plan a great Purim spiel, bake for all. Preparing for joy, there’s a happy thought!
There is another theme to Adar that is also relevant to Adar Aleph – the hiddenness of G-d. G-d is not mentioned at all in the Purim story – and yet a miracle occurs. From this we learn that even the most mundane aspects of our lives harbor divinity; and that even when G-d is hidden, we are partners in divinity — the agents in bringing forth miracles. In this extra month without a holiday, set in the midst of drab winter, it could be easy to fall into the ordinary. Let us find the divine in the everyday for two months this year – a double dose of seeking out and transforming evil, bringing us to joy. —Kirby
Our next Rosh Chodesh walking meditation will honor the month of Adar Bet, Friday, March 4, 7:30 am. Rain or snow or shine! Contact us for location.
Rosh Chodesh Cleveland 