Last evening I attended Jewish Prayer at "The Synagogue by the Sea". As I walked over to the Naval Building, I noticed a paddleboarder on the Lake. It was a perfect Autumn afternoon for a peaceful trek across the still waters. I hope I get to do this again myself. I don't know why Dave has not been back in several weeks. It just has not worked out for one reason or another for me (or him) to get back on the board.
I met Chad yesterday at run class. He has a paddleboard and participated in the Lake Max Challenge in June. I think Dave would like him. Maybe they will paddleboard together sometime. Chad's wife is a riding instructor, and I hope to talk more with her in coming days.
I've been feeling very fatigued for weeks. I'm beginning to think it might be West Nile. Maybe I'll get a blood test. I can do my job, but suddenly I'll be totally zapped of energy. So I've been leaving an hour early most days. I haven't been running or even walking much and am already losing ground on my goals for the year. I may need to revise them to more realistic levels.
But yesterday was a good day. My energy held out enough to make it to Prayer Service. Disappointingly though, Josh, the leader of the service, who sings and plays guitar, was sick himself and couldn't make it. My Jewish dorm girl, who is Prefect, stepped up to the plate and led the Service and did a fine job. It's nice to have a Siddur to give framework to worship. Since we had no music, we did not sing L'cha Dodi, but read the words in English. I was so looking forward to joining in on that song, having learned the Hebrew with a music download and my own siddur at home.
I was impressed with some of the Jewish boys chanting the prayers with "kavanah" if that is the right word. I have lots to learn about Jewish religiosity, but there is much I like about it so far. It's one thing to have heard about it from others, read about it, etc., but experiencing it, even in this modified, abbreviated School setting, is enlightening.
We had to use "Hawaiian bread" for HaMotzi, since Josh was not there to bring Challah. The Manischewitz was there for the blessing of the wine, and the sip made me feel very relaxed. My agreement with the LORD is not to go beyond this ritual for six months and not to bring any into my home, lest it be a temptation in a weak moment. It is conceivable that after passing this test of temperance that maybe this ritual wine use could be continued at home. If it would be a stumbling block for Pat (or me) it won't happen. Admittedly, I am somewhat influenced these days by Messianics who see nothing wrong with the temperate use of wine. Wine was not my downfall in the past; it was beer. Still, a fence needs to be erected at a safe distance from the edge of a cliff.
I am not sure what I will do as far as attendance at Jewish Prayer Service from here on, though. I barely made it home before sunset this time.........a very nice drive along the scenic country roads with almost peak foliage, the setting sun in the west; an almost full moon directly east. I will need to pray about the driving prohibition and if the LORD would have me continue with it. I wonder what they do about lighting candles when the service starts after sunset?
When I left the service, the Culver band was marching over to the football stadium playing the familiar marching tune that I enjoy. I'm glad I got to see and hear it, but no football game for me on Erev Shabbat.
I arrived home, chatted with Pat about my experiences, had some milk and cookies, and went to bed, sleeping well.
This morning I read Proverbs 13, as that is where I am in reading through the Koren Jerusalem Bible this year. It is the 13th of Tishri........and so the idea came to mind that maybe I should read the corresponding Proverbs chapter every day of the Hebrew month. There is so much food for thought in each chapter of Proverbs that one chapter needs to be digested and not read over quickly in order to read a few chapters of the Bible each morning. So I'll try this, and move to to the Book of Job tomorrow, as well as my readings in the Book of Acts.
Gleanings from Proverbs chapter 13:
Is a skeptic a scorner? (Will research this word later on)
Hope deferred makes the heart sick (heartache), but desire fulfilled is a tree of life. -- Proverbs 13:12
I noticed daisies in the crannied wall the other day....near the "To everything there is a season" park bench.
"The way of the faithless is rough."
"A desire subdued is sweet to the soul."
"He that walks with wise men shall be wise."
I love the clarity of these Scriptures. They say what they mean, and mean what they say. Words mean things. People should use them wisely and with clarity when they speak/write to one another. Vague, cryptic comments invite misunderstanding....or perhaps the intended understanding is meant to be imparted via osmosis? Hit and run harangues inhibit conversation. Back and forth discourse promotes friendly relationships and enlightens both parties, even when they disagree. How I miss that!
I forgave my adversaries on Yom Kippur, even though neither has apologized. I am open to reconciliation whenever they are ready to communicate. Until then, I will respect their stated wishes.
1 comment:
No West Nile. Blood test came back normal. Whatever virus I had has pretty much resolved.
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