A December to Remember

Tashlich on the Beach

As we approach the secular New Year, it's a time for second chances and an opportunity to concretize the promises we made to ourselves during Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. The memories of our Jewish gatherings throughout the year, such as Tashlich on the Beach and planting 'seeds of intention' at our Sukkot Sha-hike, have been a source of Jewish, spiritual connection. 

I can't help but call to mind the powerful image of 'the doorway' presenting itself again as we approach the secular New Year. This time, we have another Jewish task at hand. At this next threshold, we must remember to affix a mezuzah to mark our re-dedication to feed our spiritual, Jewish practices, mind, body and soul.

In every Jewish household, we are commanded to place a mezuzah on the doorpost. This little box holds the prayer of unity and oneness, known as the Shma and v'ahavta. It is a prayer that reminds us to put our dedication and love for God on the doorposts of our homes.

This past December, we celebrated Chanukkah and ignited within ourselves the ancient energy of endurance, re-dedication and confidence passed down from the Maccabees. They restored their house of worship and their faith. Interestingly, when we attach the mezuzah to our doorpost, the ceremony is called a "Chanukkat habayit," which uses the same word and context as Chanukkah. It symbolizes re-dedicating our hearts and homes to a higher purpose.

When we braid the energies of September through December/Kislev, we can't help but set a powerful intentions for this coming year of 2024, 5784, that will keep you on course to embody the abundance of your ultimate life mission.

Now, I challenge you to take a moment to think about what you are re-dedicating yourself to in the New Year. 

As a reminder, it's not too late to join the Nachshon Community with our Journey Journal group, January Kabbalah series, February He'art Craft Classes, or March Spring Sound Bath. These classes can help you reflect each month on how the holidays, seasons, and the rhythm of the cyclical calendar affect and assist you in your personal growth. Just go to the Calendar section and sign up now. 

Happy New Year!