So, the entire community of the Israelites went out from Moses’s presence, and then they came… everyone whose spirit made-them-willing brought God’s contribution… Then came men and women alike, everyone of willing mind…everyone that wished to elevate an elevation-offering of gold to God.
[Exodus 35:20-22, selections]
We are a people who gather and show up for one another, and now we must transform that into a new way of “being here” for each other.
As we figure out alternate ways to connect, via phone and the internet, we must continue to remind each other that we care deeply, we are agents of compassion and loving-kindness, with willing spirits and minds, knowing that we can elevate ourselves and our community and our world.
We must raise up our behavior, take care to gather in person as little as possible, and safeguard the health of everyone.
While Judaism demands that we be present for each other, our holiest calling is the preservation of life, and for that we forego “in person”.
Stay in touch, “see” you regularly, I hope, and wishing everyone health and safety,