Advice from a Tree

If trees could talk, what would they teach us?  This question comes to mind as we prepare for Tu B’Shvat, the Jewish holiday known as the New Year for Trees.  At the DJC, we observe the holiday with our annual Tu B’Shvat Seder, an opportunity to celebrate trees, nature, and our connection to Life with song, a mystical ceremony, and a delicious feast.

Like a tree, the DJC continues to grow and thrive while staying grounded by our roots.  In January, we hosted our B’Nei Mitzvah Program Open House and another Ritual Leadership Training Session, further building our members’ capacity to be actively engaged in progressive Jewish life.  We continue to explore Jewish identity, ritual, history, spirituality, and community through our services, educational programs, food, and the arts.

In honour of Tu B’Shvat, we encourage you reflect on ways to both connect to your Jewish roots and sow seeds of positive change.  Perhaps you’d like to recognize a recent positive change, blessing, or milestone with a Kavod (honour) Donation, or plant a tree when the ground has thawed!

We leave you with this poem…

Advice from a Treeby Ilan Shamir

Dear Friend, Stand Tall and Proud Sink your roots deeply into the Earth Reflect the light of a greater source Think long term Go out on a limb Remember your place among all living beings Embrace with joy the changing seasons For each yields its own abundance The Energy and Birth of Spring The Growth and Contentment of Summer The Wisdom to let go of leaves in the Fall The Rest and Quiet Renewal of Winter Feel the wind and the sun And delight in their presence Look up at the moon that shines down upon you And the mystery of the stars at night. Seek nourishment from the good things in life Simple pleasures Earth, fresh air, light Be content with your natural beauty Drink plenty of water Let your limbs sway and dance in the breezes Be flexible Remember your roots Enjoy the view!

The DJC Board of Directors ~ Emma, Hilla, Josh, Elisabeth, Mara, Marlee, Michael, Mindy, Nadya, Shelley