Life, Love and In between!

"That's not a good way to die - before you've told the end of your story."

From the Mount of Olives

             Everyone has a story to tell, a unique tale that weaves the intimate details of their lives into a single narrative, capturing who they are, from where they come and to where they will go. Each time we sit down to write such a narrative, it seems overwhelming, a task too daunting to allow completion. However, if we consider life as a series of vignettes, the story all of a sudden takes on a less terrifying component. Instead, it becomes a story, easy enough to write in the span of an afternoon.

If we are not careful, if for some reason we choose not to continue documenting our time and efforts, that story can be lost, or at least not transmitted by our pen. Instead it may become part of proto history, spread by someone else's voice instead of our own.

Always consider what you want your story to be. Never forget that your story will end. Live a life filled with love, compassion, choice, freedom, light. Find what makes you glow.

Yesterday I participated in the Jerusalem Pride Parade. I wasn't sure I wanted to at first, seeing that I was tired from our biblical history tiyul. However, I decided that going to the parade was way more important than my participation in a wine festival. (Both events were on Tu B'Av, the Jewish Day of Love). The experience of seeing so many people out, happy, and able to express themselves was utterly fantastic. These displays of affection were beautiful, acceptable, even wanted, and demonstrated how important it is for communities to be open, accepting and equal to all members. Although I did not buy a flag, I willingly waved one throughout the parade and am proud to have stood with so many people. Just as the religious of Jerusalem have a right to their voice and their space, so too does every other person deserve their voice to be not only heard, but actually listened to. Yesterday, I learned the importance of both a single voice and a crowd. Next year, in Jerusalem, may there be equality. This year, in Jerusalem, may there be equality and may everyone be heard.

Let everyone write their life story as truthfully as possible. How will you write yours? What will your story demonstrate?