Justice, justice, shall you pursue...

 

 

Last post, we talked about using the time of the beginning of the month of Elul for deep introspection. Perhaps each of us needs to break free of beliefs that no longer serve our personal development. Then, embrace new ideas in order to thrive.

Next step - your relationships...

 

This past Shabbat's parsha, Shoftim, reminded me of witnessing a defining moment in the relationship between my older son and his sister-in-law, my younger son's new bride, Emily. Jordan and Emily didn't know each other very well. Fortunately, Emily and Nick were able to make the trip at the beginning of Thanksgiving week to celebrate Jordan's passing the Massachusetts bar. As a surprise congratulatory present for Jordan, Emily made an oil painting of the justice scales (in Jordan's favorite color, blue) with the quote from the parsha.                           

For me, "Justice, justice, shall you pursue", marked the start of their relationship.

 

According to Caroline Myss, Ph.D., the energy of the partnership (relationship) chakra begins to pulsate and become distinct around the age of seven. This week, focus on relationships. How can we learn to Honor One Another?  Take the time to do so, step by step. Review your relationships, connect with your friends and family and aquaintances. Call, send an email, a card, flowers, photos, do something kind... What's your idea of how to connect with the people in your life in a good way?

 

When Jordan, Nick and I were visiting Israel back in the late '90's, Jordan had an argument with his friend, Paul, while swimming. Who could remember what the argument was about? It is the relationship that is more important than the circumstance. It is the treatment of a person with respect and dignity that is more important than the issue or situation.

This week, ask each other for forgiveness. It is imperative to forgive each other before we can move toward asking God for forgiveness.

 

B'Shalom,

Marlene