"Each one of us"
February 15 I woke up earlier than normal. I got my coffee and headed to Lion's Lake, about three minutes from my dorm. Lion's Lake has always been "my place." I believe that it is important to have a quiet place that is always available to you. The morning started off a little bit cloudy and chilly but I decided I was going to bring my own sunshine. I sat on the dock and watched the world go by for a good hour and a half. In that time I watched geese swim on the water, a duck sit under the dock by me, and people walking the perimeter of the lake. I began by listening to the sounds of nature, to clear my head. After I felt ready, I put on some music. A song by Dan Nichols, Kehillah Kedoshah, came on. In Hebrew Kehillah Kedoshah translates to ‘holy community.” For some that definition might sound a little intense but what do you consider some of the communities that you are a part of? Holy can be what you make of it. I know for me one of the main communities that I consider myself apart of is the Jewish community that I grew up in. Another one being the university I’m at, and many smaller sectors within the school. For me it becomes “holy” when the people and places that I surround myself with help better myself and make me feel something more than I can describe with words. Ultimately it is being part of a community that genuinely cares for one another. Back to that morning on the dock. The day before was the mass school shooting in Florida and I had no answers. I was going round and round in my head about why shootings KEEP happening. I don’t want this post to turn into all that. However some of the lyrics in this song are: Each one of us must play a part Each one of us must heed the call Each one of us must seek the truth Each one of us is a part of it all Each one of us must remember the pain Each one of us must find the joy Each one of us THIS. These lyrics hit me. They didn't provide an easy fix, but a way to start bettering us. I believe in a way we are responsible for those around us. Not responsible for their actions or what they do, but responsible for looking out for them. To be there when then need us, not just at our convince, that would not make for the best kehillah kedoshah. To pay attention to how they’re doing, occasionally check in. Ask genuine questions and seek to get truthful answers. I really do believe that everyone just want to be loved. Maybe not every day, maybe not all the time, but in those moments where we just need someone. To feel something. Having strong relationships with people can save lives. If you want anything to take away from this, I challenge you to reach out to someone after reading this and check in with them. If time and space allow sit down, in person and talk. If not phone calls are always great. Something else, be more mindful of those around you. Try and find small ways to interact with people you may see on a daily basis. Offer hope and support for them because you never know who may need it.