Each day I enjoy a cup of tea and a few moments of quiet time to reflect on the message of my tea bag. Like Torah, these words call me to open my heart and my mind. I turn them over and over, letting them seep under my skin and fall into the cracks in my heart. Challenges and affirmations. I get more than my money's worth from these tea bags. This morning's message feels like a mantra for this whole corona-year - Personal growth lies within the unknown. Courage permits you to explore this space. How much have we dared to explore and imagine in this complicated year of the unknown? In what ways have we
stepped into the desert, recalibrating our GPS, opening to what we had never imagined? What have we unmasked inside even as we've covered our smiles? How has the sparkle in our eyes come to align with the strength in our souls?
On this day of Purim, I'm drawn to the words of Mordecai to his niece Esther when he commands her to go to the King for the sake of their people, Who knows whether for a time like this you have reached royal status (Megillat Esther, 4:14). See what you are made of. Explore your call. Embrace the challenge to bring about change. Esther understands the power of community to support personal work and catalyze the universe. She commands her uncle to bring the Jewish people together, joining her and her maidens in an extended fast. On the third day, she dresses for success, clothing herself in garments of royalty. She unmasks her fear and garbs herself in strength and courage. Stepping into the unknown, she finds her voice and her true self.
At some point, if we're listening, each of us will have a moment like Esther where we are called to put on our crown and save ourselves. While it might be more comfortable to stay as we are, each of us has a purpose that demands we unmask our identity to grow into our fullest selves. As Peloton instructor Ally Love teaches, Don't be afraid of who you are. Step into your purpose.
The history of the Jewish people is one of journey. We are defined by movement, not stagnation. Hope not fear. Let us learn from Esther to claim the future by reclaiming ourselves. May we remember that hope is the courage to open our heart to the possibility around us. Faith is the trust that God may be with us on our journey. And for some clarity of purpose, an inspirational cup of tea might be just what we need.
Purim Sameach and Shabbat Shalom! rg
Congregation Habonim 103 West End Ave New York, NY 10023
