It's been overwhelming for me this past year dealing with chronic pain, turning 50, my favorite Uncle passing away, friends diagnosed with cancer, not seeing my family much, money problems and well....the crazy state of our country and world!!! LIfe my friends! I mean, yes, I know, in the scheme of world problems mine are not so awful. It doesn't take away the fact that it's been a struggle for me. So I made a pretty big decision to start learning more so I can practice Judaism. I've pretty much been a secular Jew my whole life. We would go to my Grandparent's house when I was young to celebrate the Jewish Holidays but other than that I did not grow up knowing a lot about Judaism or having any kind of traditions instilled in me. As a young adult I bought a Menorah and would light Hanukkah candles and that was it! I think it was a way to feel connected to my grandparents who had both since passed away. The thought has always been in the recess of my mind
Poetry and Observations by Beth Achenbach