Elul is our consecrated time to turn within. To lead with compassion. To soften our hearts. Each day is a new invitation to create the fullest expression of our lives. I encourage you to dedicate quality time each day of this month to focus on a positive attribute that will enrich your life. Today, I offer you some direction on the value of Gratitude - a wellspring of joy that can always be celebrated, tweaked and expanded upon. To be thankful for whatever we have - by way of health, loved ones, or shelter, can feel especially poignant during this reflective period of the Jewish year.
“Thank you.” In the rhythm of Jewish life, this is the first phrase of our morning routine. Before we can think - “Coffee!” or “Bathroom!” It’s “Thank you”. Gratitude is our anchor; our mindful response to all of life’s blessings. We thank God at every turn - for the food we eat, the pleasures we enjoy, and “for the miracles that accompany us evening, morning and noon”. Gratitude is the deepest expression of living. As Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel remarked: “To pray is to take notice of the wonder, to regain a sense of the mystery that animates all beings. Prayer is our humble answer to the inconceivable surprise of living. It is all we can offer in return for the mystery by which we live. It is gratefulness that makes the soul great.”(Man’s Quest for God p. 5)
Activity:
1. Write down three things you are grateful for. Got more? Keep going! Allow the list to grow as you go about your day. Try adding to your list throughout the month as an anchoring spiritual practice.
2. Identify someone in your life - past or present, alive or no longer with us - for whom you are thankful. Communicate your gratitude, verbally or in writing, through music, or whatever expression feels most authentic.
Daily Prayer: Modeh Ani: I am thankful before you, God, living spirit of the universe, for returning my soul to me, great is your faith [in me].
Today, God has faith in us to feel gratitude and express it fully.
Yoga Pose: Consider this “heart opener” - Camel pose. Make sure you are warmed up first! I was quite warm on top of Masada (103 degrees), where this camel pose was taken in the summer of 2019.
If you use social media: remember to tag @rabbi.dani And include #30dayjswjourney In your posts!
Rabbi Danielle Upbin is the Associate Rabbi at Congregation Beth Shalom in Clearwater, FL. As a student at JTS, many years ago, she is grateful for having served as an intern for Rabbi Carnie Rose at Old Westbury Jewish Center. She is a spiritual leader, yoga instructor, prayer leader and singer. You can follow on myjewishlearning.com, danielleupbin.com, and @rabbi.dani.
