February is normally all about Valentine’s Day, but I don’t want to write about Valentine’s Day. I do however want to write about LOVE! In the spirit of my January column, I also want to consider my personal heroes who inspire me to live a more loving life.
Today, I am inspired by Rabbi Ellari Mirabel – my personal faith hero and a friend from college. For the past few years I have followed the posts of Rabbi Ellari during Hanukkah — and she helped me to focus on LIGHT in life, especially at a time when darkness wants to prevail.
LIGHT over darkness is what I want my focus to be. LIGHT will keep LOVE at the center of my mind & heart!
Rabbi Ellari also made me aware of ways to help show support and love for all Jewish people at a time when too many in our world are embracing antisemitic ways. This month, I am affixing a Solidarity Mezuzah to the front door post of my home.
A Mezuzah can be found on the doorpost of most Jewish homes and contains parchment with scripture written on it – including the Shema – a prayer which is thought to be the heart of Judaism. It’s a profound call to love God with all one’s being (heart, soul, strength
For me, it is a call to love the Being who is LOVE in this world… and beyond.
I will affix my solidarity mezuzah on our doorpost with the following intention: “This home stands in unwavering solidarity with the Jewish community and is committed to being an ally in the fight against hate, bigotry, and antisemitism. We affirm that every person has the right to proudly express their faith, culture, and identity, and we pledge to honor and protect these freedoms for all.”
God is LOVE — and negative aggression toward anyone based on their faith is detestable. During this month of LOVE, I encourage us all to really think about what we can do to make this world a more loving place.
Let’s focus on LIGHT! Let’s focus on LOVE. Thank you, Rabbi Ellari!
