Posts tagged Thanksgiving
What We Need is Here (Shabbat Vayishlach)
What We Need is Here (Shabbat Vayishlach)

Stuck in “if only” mind, Jacob never felt like what he had was enough. On the eve of his reunion with the brother he has betrayed we would understand if he felt he needed more, begged God for protection. But instead, Jacob turns and does something very different: Jacob prays to God - not with a plea, but with gratitude. He says: “Katonti mi-kol ha-chasadim u’mi-kol ha-emet asher asita et avdecha” / I am unworthy of all the kindness You have so steadfastly shown Your servant.” (Gen 32:11). He has a realization that he already has everything he needs to face his past, take responsibility for his actions, and live with integrity.

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sermonAdam Lavittgratitude, meditation, Jacob, Thanksgiving
Wanting What We Have (Shabbat Toldot)
Wanting What We Have (Shabbat Toldot)

Because Jacob has spent his whole life searching for more, focused on his failures and losses, on what he does not have, imagining his tzuris will go away if only he had something else, he overlooks all he has achieved in this life, and the blessings right before him. In some way, we are all Jacob: We’ve all been touched by loss during this pandemic. This is an irrefutable fact. It might be the most important story we need to tell about our lives right now, the most fundamental fact.

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Adam LavittThanksgiving, purpose, loss